A director with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Michigan is facing allegations of orchestrating a scheme to defraud the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) after floods in 2023 caused damage to her home.
On Wednesday, the Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed a criminal complaint against 55-year-old Serina Baker-Hill, accusing her of defrauding FEMA and providing false statements to federal agents.
Baker-Hill, a longtime CBP employee, currently holds the position of director at CBP’s Center for Excellence and Expertise in Automotive and Aerospace Engineering.
FBI Director Kash Patel addressed the case in a post on X, stating, “Through collaboration with our interagency partners, I can confirm that a senior-level director at U.S. Customs and Border Protection has been charged with allegedly attempting to defraud FEMA and lying to federal agents.”
“This effort is part of the FBI’s renewed commitment to tackling public corruption and ensuring accountability for the American people. Justice will be served. I appreciate the dedication of our partners @AGPamBondi, @TheJusticeDept, and our @FBIDetroit team for their hard work.”
After severe flooding hit the Detroit area in August 2023, FEMA approved Michigan’s request for a federal disaster declaration, allowing affected residents to apply for assistance.
According to the Department of Justice (DOJ), Serina Baker-Hill applied for aid after her home sustained flood damage. A FEMA inspector assessed the property and confirmed damage to the basement.
During the inspection, Baker-Hill allegedly stated that she could not safely live in the home while repairs were underway. As a result, FEMA approved financial assistance to cover repair costs. She was also granted two months of rental assistance, with the approval letter specifying that the funds were to be used exclusively for rent and essential utilities while she stayed in temporary housing.
Investigators examined Baker-Hill’s bank records and reportedly found no evidence that the funds were used for rent, hotel stays, or utility payments.
Additionally, surveillance footage from her home was reviewed, allegedly showing that Baker-Hill and her husband remained living in the house even after receiving FEMA rental assistance.
According to the DOJ, utility records did not show a significant decrease in usage that would indicate the home was unoccupied during the period in question.
FBI agents and officials from the CBP Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) interviewed Baker-Hill, who denied any wrongdoing or attempts to defraud the U.S. government.
The investigation remains ongoing, and once it is complete, authorities will determine whether to pursue a felony indictment.
