A former Pennsylvania Labor Department employee is accused of taking bribes to approve fraudulent unemployment claims.
Federal prosecutors say Elizabeth Goss, 43, of Erie allegedly accepted payments between 2020 and 2023 in exchange for fast-tracking more than $500,000 in pandemic-related unemployment benefits for claimants who were not eligible.
Investigators say the scheme misused public funds that were intended to help people in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Goss now faces multiple federal charges, including wire fraud and theft of government property. Each count carries a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years.
Authorities say the case highlights their ongoing commitment to cracking down on fraud and holding those responsible accountable.