Say it ain’t so! New Orleans bounce artist Big Freedia, born Freddie Ross Jr., has been charged with a felony count of theft of federal funds. The indictment filed against Freedia accused her of falsely reporting income and stealing more than $1,000 from the Department of Housing and Urban Development between 2010 and 2014. The documents also claim that Freedia lied about her income in order to stay in subsidized housing. Freedia faces a maximum prison term of 10 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.
Freedia addressed the situation in the following statement, “This is an incredibly unfortunate situation. I was on subsidized housing for many years before my financial situation changed. I quickly found myself in a new economic structure and, frankly, knew little about how to handle my money. It wasn’t until recently (after I had stopped receiving housing vouchers) that it became very clear I had received assistance to which I wasn’t entitled. It was an oversight—but one that I take full responsibility for. From the moment I was contacted by Government agents, I have fully cooperated and have already begun making arrangements to pay full restitution (of approximately $34,000).
Housing vouchers are a vital lifeline for many people I know in New Orleans and around the country, including struggling artists. I truly believe there needs to be more programs for artists and musicians to teach basic financial literacy and planning. Coming from where I came from, I know that I could have used that kind of assistance. I’m exploring ways to be a part of the solution in this area and am looking forward to putting this matter behind me.”
Freedia’s attorney, Tim Kappel, says he doesn’t expect Freedia to serve any hail time, and that he is negotiating a plea deal with the government for Freedia to pay restitution of $34,000.
