Authorities have returned one of the FBI’s most wanted fugitives to the United States following an international manhunt. Elaine Angene Escoe, accused of being involved in a $32 million COVID-19 relief fraud, was captured in Jamaica. The FBI reports she had been living under a false identity.
Escoe, 41, arrived back in South Florida on Thursday after Jamaican officials detained her. She faces charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. Federal prosecutors in the Southern District of Florida had issued an indictment against her in 2025.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that Escoe’s arrest underscores the reach of American justice. He emphasized the commitment to prosecuting individuals who defraud government programs.
FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted this arrest as part of a wider effort. In the past five weeks, the FBI has apprehended four individuals on the ‘Most Wanted Fraudster’ list. Until now, these suspects managed to evade capture for over 3,500 days combined.
Escoe allegedly participated in a conspiracy to fraudulently acquire over $32 million in federal COVID-19 funds. She went on the run in May 2025, according to authorities. Her capture and return were made possible through cooperation among multiple agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations and Jamaican law enforcement.
The FBI has successfully returned more than 30 high-value targets since June. The suspects involved in recent captures are charged with defrauding nearly $1.8 billion. Patel affirmed that fraud will not be tolerated under this administration, stressing the ongoing efforts to recapture those who misuse taxpayer funds.