DHS Employee Charged in Alleged VA Mortgage Fraud Scheme
A Department of Homeland Security employee in the Seattle-Tacoma area has been charged by the DOJ for allegedly defrauding the VA. The employee, a military veteran, is accused of falsely claiming a 100% disability rating to secure a $478,000 VA-backed…
Seattle Tacoma, WA, July 31, 2026 —
A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) employee, identified as a military veteran in the Seattle-Tacoma area, faces federal charges for allegedly defrauding the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the charges, which center on accusations of misrepresenting disability status to obtain a significant VA-backed home loan.
According to the DOJ’s allegations, the employee falsely claimed a 100% disability rating. This assertion was reportedly made to qualify for a VA-guaranteed mortgage valued at approximately $478,000. Crucially, the charges state that the individual did not possess any VA disability rating at the time the mortgage application was submitted.
The VA provides a home loan guaranty program to help service members, veterans, and eligible surviving spouses become homeowners. To be eligible for certain benefits, including potentially securing a mortgage with favorable terms, applicants may need to meet specific criteria, which can include having a VA disability rating.
Details regarding the specific nature of the alleged misrepresentation, the timeline of the events leading to the charges, and the current status of the legal proceedings were not immediately available. The case is being handled by the Department of Justice.
Story summarized from the original created by Mark.Richardson@fox.com (Mark Richardson) on www.fox13seattle.com, see more information here.
