Fraud and Abuse Overview

The Oakland Housing Authority’s Police Department has a Fraud Investigation Unit​ dedicated solely to investigating allegations of suspected fraud by OHA Conventional (Public Housing) and Section 8 clients, and landlords receiving federal funds through contracts with OHA. The Fraud Investigation Unit also manages all debt collections. 

What is Fraud?

Here are some examples of fraudulent activities that are considered criminal violations:

• Knowingly omitting income or assets of the family household
• Knowingly under-reporting income/assets of the family household
• Transferring income or assets to obtain/retain eligibility under false pretenses
• Using false identity or Social Security Numbers
• Using false documents such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, grant deeds
• Falsifying the number of household members
• Obtaining duplicate assistance or subletting all or part of the unit; withholding additional assistance such as AFDC, Child Support, etc.; charging additional rent from assisted tenants

Once convicted, offenders may face prison terms, probation, mandatory restitution, and termination from housing assistance.

When reporting fraud or crime please be as specific as possible regarding the possible fraudulent activities in your voice or e-mail message. If you prefer to talk to us directly, please leave your name, phone number and the best time to contact you. All calls are confidential and you may choose to remain anonymous at all times.