CHEYENNE, WY — A Wyoming Department of Workforce Services (DWS) investigation into Unemployment Insurance fraud has resulted in the conviction and sentencing of a Cheyenne woman on two felony counts of Unemployment Insurance Fraud.
Lisa Valencia pleaded guilty to two felony counts of Unemployment Insurance Fraud. District Judge Robin Cooley sentenced Valencia to concurrent prison terms of four to five years, suspended in favor of five years of supervised probation. She was also ordered to pay $6,500 in restitution to DWS.
The investigation began with a 2024 Unemployment Insurance claim, in which DWS investigators identified fraudulent information and documents submitted by Valencia on behalf of a family member. A subsequent review of Valencia’s prior claims uncovered additional fraud connected to a 2021 claim filed for her own benefit.
Investigators determined that false employment information and fraudulent documents had been submitted to obtain Unemployment Insurance benefits that otherwise would not have been awarded.
“DWS is committed to upholding the integrity of Wyoming’s Unemployment Insurance system,” said Elizabeth Gagen, Director of the Department of Workforce Services. “These benefits are intended to support eligible workers during periods of unemployment. When fraud occurs, it diverts resources from those who legitimately qualify for assistance and undermines public trust in the program.”
Wyoming’s Unemployment Insurance program provides temporary financial assistance to eligible workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. DWS actively investigates allegations of fraud and works to ensure benefits are paid appropriately and in accordance with state law.
Individuals who suspect Unemployment Insurance fraud may report concerns to the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services.