Acting United States Attorney Ken Sorenson has announced the arrest of Daylyn Harris, 34, and Chelsea Johnson, 32, both from Honolulu, Hawaii. The two were charged on July 15, 2025, in a seven-count indictment by a federal grand jury on July 17.
The indictment accuses Harris and Johnson of conspiring to commit wire fraud by submitting false claims to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). They allegedly claimed losses from two federal disasters without residing in the affected areas or suffering any losses. Harris is said to have falsely claimed residence in Lahaina during the fires there in August and September 2023. He reported housing and income loss as well as medical bills and property damage. Johnson allegedly assisted by pretending to be his landlord. In January 2025, Johnson also reportedly made false claims regarding residence in Pacific Palisades during California fires.
Together, they are accused of receiving over $60,000 in disaster relief funds from FEMA.
If found guilty of these charges, Harris and Johnson could face up to thirty years imprisonment along with fines reaching $1 million per count.
It is important to note that these charges are accusations; both defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court. Sentencing would be determined by a United States District Judge according to statutory factors and guidelines.
The investigation is being conducted by the Department of Homeland Security – Office of the Inspector General with help from the Honolulu Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael F. Albanese will prosecute this case.
