A House Ethics investigative subcommittee has reported finding “substantial evidence” that Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick engaged in fraudulent activities, as outlined in a recent federal indictment. The Florida Democrat faces serious allegations, including misappropriation of FEMA funds for campaign purposes, involvement in a straw donor scheme, and committing tax fraud.

The panel’s investigation, which began in June, has uncovered violations across multiple areas including campaign finance laws, criminal laws, the Ethics in Government Act, the Code of Ethics for Government Service, and House rules. According to a detailed report by the subcommittee, the evidence supports the charges in the indictment and suggests even more extensive misconduct.

In response to the findings, Michael Stroud, the attorney representing Cherfilus-McCormick, has urged the panel to halt their proceedings while the criminal case is ongoing and to dismiss the ongoing investigation. Stroud asserts that Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick “disputes and refutes the allegations and report of the Ethics Committee’s Investigative Subcommittee.”

Despite the representative’s initial cooperation with the investigative efforts, which included the review of over 33,000 documents, dozens of interviews, the issuance of 59 subpoenas, and 12 subcommittee meetings, Cherfilus-McCormick eventually invoked her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination.

The case is set to proceed with an adjudicatory subcommittee hearing slated for March, where further examination of the allegations will occur. The outcome of this hearing could have significant implications for Cherfilus-McCormick's political career and position in the House.

Stroud did not respond immediately to requests for further comment on the matter. As this case unfolds, it continues to draw attention to the standards of ethical conduct required of government officials and the rigorous processes in place to uphold these standards.