A former Horn Lake alderman has been taken into custody for unemployment fraud.
Special agents with the Mississippi Office of State Auditor took Charles Roberts into custody on Thursday. The former Ward 4 alderman is accused of receiving unemployment benefits while still employed by the city of Horn Lake and failing to disclose that income.
Roberts is charged with one count of making fraudulent statements and representations. His case has been turned over to the DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office
“This indictment and arrest highlight the commitment of the State Auditor and his office to holding public officials accountable,” District Attorney Matthew Barton said. “Stealing from the taxpayers is a serious crime, and we are dedicated to carrying this case across the finish line for the taxpayers of Mississippi.”
Roberts, who lost his 2021 re-election bid to David Young in the Republican primary, faces up to $10,000 in fines and five years in prison if convicted.
