The FBI is actively searching for Elaine Angene Escoe, a 40-year-old Florida woman accused of masterminding a sweeping fraud scheme that siphoned more than $34 million in COVID-19 relief funds.
According to federal investigators, Escoe is considered the “ringleader” behind more than 90 fraudulent applications submitted between May 2020 and November 2021 under programs designed to support struggling businesses during the pandemic. These included the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF), and the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG).
Court filings allege that Escoe and her co-conspirators falsified payroll expenses, business revenues, and employee counts to secure government aid. The scheme allegedly resulted in the wrongful disbursement of approximately $29.1 million in PPP funds, $1.2 million in RRF funds, and $3.8 million in SVOG funds.
Disappearance After Federal Charges
On May 22, 2025, a federal arrest warrant was issued for Escoe, charging her with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, concealment money laundering, and transactional money laundering. The warrant came shortly after her release on bond in connection with a separate fraud case.
Per Fox Orlando, Escoe was scheduled to appear in court on June 5, but failed to show. She was last seen on June 3 in Palm Beach County, Florida, and authorities believe she may have fled to her native Jamaica. Investigators warn that she may be using aliases, including “Annie” and “Annie Palmer.”
Ongoing FBI Investigation
Federal authorities say multiple individuals were involved in the scam, but Escoe is considered the “big fish” and the primary architect of the operation. After obtaining the funds, conspirators allegedly moved money through shell businesses, withdrew large sums in cash, and used blank, signed checks to obscure the origins of the proceeds.
The FBI has urged the public to assist in locating Escoe. Anyone with information is asked to call the agency’s tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), contact their nearest FBI office, or submit a tip online.
