A Norfolk woman has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud in connection with a COVID-era unemployment fraud scheme that cost the government more than $424,000.
Cherrelle Williams admitted to illegally applying for unemployment benefits over a year and a half using stolen personal information, according to federal prosecutors. Her co-defendant, Richard Upchurch, is currently serving a 48-month prison sentence for his role in the crime.
Court records reveal an unnamed co-conspirator — an employee at an assisted living facility in Norfolk — stole personal information from coworkers, including their names, addresses, birthdates and other identifying details, then provided that information to Williams and Upchurch…