2 state employees convicted of receiving bribes

PHOENIX — Two Arizona Department of Economic Security Employees were convicted of receiving bribes to approve unemployment insurance claims, authorities announced on Tuesday.

Jacqueline Espino, 53, pleaded guilty to one count of bribery concerning a program that receives federal funds last week. Her sentencing will be held on May 5 by United States District Judge Michael T. Liburdi.

The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) employed Espino as an adjudicator tasked with evaluating unemployment insurance (UI) and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) claims.

During the pandemic, Espino took bribes to approve UI and PUA claims for those who did not qualify to receive aid.

The Phoenix resident said she received bribes relating to nine UI/PUA claims via her plea agreement. Her actions forced the DES into paying $140,298 in claims that were not accurately adjudicated by DES.

She also admitted to embezzling $600,672 in DES funds for herself and others.

What did the other state employee do?

In a separate ruling, Brandilyn Lorenzen, 48, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for bribery concerning a program that receives federal funds on Jan. 22. She pleaded guilty on Nov. 6.

The Gilbert resident was required to pay more than $2.9 million in restitution.

Lorenzen was also employed by DES as an adjudicator during the pandemic and took bribes to approve UI and PUA claims for those who did not qualify to receive aid.

She admitted to receiving bribes relating to 24 UI/PUA claims via her plea agreement. Her actions forced the DES into paying $532,964 in claims that were not accurately adjudicated for by DES.

She also embezzled $2,461,520 in DES funds for herself and others.

“These defendants didn’t just accept bribes,” United States Attorney Gary Restaino said in a press release. “When public employees cheat, they damage the credibility of their colleagues across the country. In a time of unprecedented attacks against the integrity of public servants, it’s important for us all to recognize the patriotic service of federal and state employees, and their key role in protecting and cherishing Arizona and America.”

“Government employees are entrusted to protect the integrity of these crucial aid programs.  Those who betray that trust will be held accountable,” DHS Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari said in the release. “We appreciate the continued partnership between DHS OIG and our law enforcement partners in bringing these individuals to justice.”

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