Drexel man faces federal charges for FEMA fraud

A federal grand jury indicted a Valdese man late last week on charges of defrauding Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) of nearly $21,000 by falsely claiming his property was damaged by Hurricane Helene, when he did not own or live at the property.

Christian Michael Hall, 49, of Drexel, applied for FEMA funds when the agency offered to victims that suffered losses caused by the storm — specifically for home repair, personal property damage, housing assistance, and other needs.

The charge, fraud in connection with a major disaster or emergency benefits, could result in a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, and three years under supervised release, if Hall is found guilty.

“Every dollar of federal assistance is needed to repair my district after the destruction caused by

Tropical Storm Helene,” said U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson. “Those committing fraud and wasting those valuable dollars will not be tolerated.”

According to the indictment, Hall claimed a property in Valdese had been damaged and was his primary residence. He also provided a bank account number for financial assistance.

The indictment also specifies that Hall knew the actual owner of the home, who the indictment referred to as “C.N.”

On Oct. 29, 2024, FEMA wired $750 to Hall. On Nov. 26, 2024, FEMA wired another $20,182.14 to the bank account he provided on his application.

A warrant for Hall’s arrest was issued the same day he was indicted.

—JC