A former employee of two affordable housing complexes in Riviera Beach, Florida, has been arrested on charges of fraud, theft, and money laundering, amounting to over $89,000. Ashley Clayton, 36, was taken into custody after an investigation into her fraudulent activities at Berkeley Landing and Heron Estates.
According to the Riviera Beach Police Department (RBPD), Clayton was terminated after her employers discovered she was stealing rent payments made through money orders. She allegedly used the funds for her personal benefit. Detectives also uncovered that Clayton had engaged in similar fraudulent behavior during her previous employment at Heron Estates, which led to her dismissal from that position as well.
Chief Michael Coleman praised the investigation, stating, “Detective Jones and Officer Hunter conducted a thorough investigation, resulting in the arrest of Ms. Clayton. She took advantage of hardworking families who trusted her, and our efforts to ensure justice for the victims will continue.”
The fraud came to light after discrepancies were found in the financial records of both properties. Clayton is accused of manipulating residents’ payments by using money from one tenant to cover another’s overdue rent, making it difficult to detect the scheme. She also allegedly increased rents and instructed residents to make Zelle payments directly to her personal account, which she then funneled through multiple bank accounts and businesses she owned.
In total, Clayton is charged with stealing $89,019 from the two housing complexes. The RBPD has issued warrants for Clayton’s arrest, listing charges that include two counts of organized scheme to defraud, two counts of money laundering, and two counts of making false entries on business records, among others.
Both Berkeley Landing and Heron Estates are fully cooperating with law enforcement in the ongoing investigation. They have assured residents that they will provide support to those affected by Clayton’s fraudulent actions.