ATLANTA, Ga. (WALB) - A Valdosta man serving in the Georgia House of Representatives is facing federal charges tied to pandemic unemployment fraud.

Dexter L. Sharper, 54, of Valdosta, was charged with making false statements to unlawfully obtain emergency pandemic unemployment assistance, according to federal prosecutors. Sharper, a Democrat, represents Georgia House District 177, which includes parts of Lowndes County.

Authorities allege that between April 2020 and May 2021, Sharper applied for and collected unemployment benefits while continuing to earn income from multiple sources. Investigators say Sharper received weekly pay from the Georgia General Assembly, income from his party rental business, and additional earnings as a musician , all while certifying that he was unemployed and actively seeking work.

As a result of the alleged false applications and 38 weekly certifications, Sharper is accused of collecting $13,825 in benefits he was not entitled to receive.

Sharpening criticism of the case, officials said the allegations represent a serious breach of public trust, particularly during a time when unemployment assistance was intended for those who had lost work due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sharper was arraigned in federal court and is charged with making false statements to obtain funds administered by the U.S. Department of Labor. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Federal authorities note this is the third Georgia state lawmaker charged in connection with pandemic unemployment fraud. The investigation involved multiple state and federal agencies, including the FBI and the Georgia Office of the State Inspector General.

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