As Hurricane Dolly slammed into South Texas, the Federal Emergency Management Agency braced itself for the aftermath which unfortunately will likely include some inevitable scammers.

Terrance Flynn, U.S. Attorney, said, "You know they're greedy. These are people who take advantage of other people in times of need."

People like James Wilson of Buffalo who stands accused of defrauding FEMA.

This morning, he showed up at U.S. District court after he and his friend, Valetta Simmons, were recently indicted on theft of government money and mail fraud.

Apparently, Simmons claimed she was living in Texas and forced to relocate to Buffalo as a result of hurricane Rita three years ago.

Wilson allegedly assisted her by creating false documents from his home.

U.S. Attorney Terrance Flynn says the evidence showed Simmons was living in Wny when Rita hit.

Terrance Flynn, U.S. Attorney, said, "There are a group of people out there who will cheat, cheat friends, cheat family and unfortunately cheat taxpayers."

Federal officials hope the case here at US District Court sends a clear message ..that anyone who attempts to obtain Fema relief money illegally will be arrested and prosecuted.:rolleyes:

[color="Red"]Wilson declined comment after he was released on his own recognizance. He and his codefendant allegedly pocketed about ten grand in disaster aid. Area resident Brian Detty was disappointed to hear this. He worked with hurricane refugees in 2005.

Brian Detty, Cheektowaga Resident, said, "People generally give because they really want to help and scammers understand and take advantage of that because people are much more trusting at the time."

This fraud case is the first local one tied to Hurricane Rita. A few Katrina cases were prosecuted here a year ago. Wilson is scheduled to return to court October 24th.