News | Port St. Lucie

FBI Search for Palm Beach County Woman, Operation Trackside Arrests Highlight Busy Week

September 7, 2025
6:29 pm

This week in Palm Beach County, the FBI search for a woman accused of a $34 million COVID-19 relief fraud scheme, a multi-agency drug trafficking bust called Operation Trackside, and local community stories have dominated headlines and images across the Treasure Coast.

FBI Search for Palm Beach County Woman Accused of COVID-19 Relief Fraud

Palm Beach County is at the center of a federal manhunt as the FBI Miami Field Office continues its search for Elaine Angene Escoe, 40, who is accused of orchestrating a $34 million fraud scheme involving federal COVID-19 relief funds.

Escoe allegedly submitted more than 90 fraudulent applications between May 2020 and November 2021, targeting programs such as the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF), and the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG).

According to investigators, Escoe used false payroll data, inflated employee numbers, and fabricated revenue figures to secure millions in pandemic aid. In a related development, Port St. Lucie police have also been investigating traveling criminal activity that has impacted regional safety and law enforcement priorities.

Timeline of the Investigation

Escoe was last seen in Palm Beach County on June 3, 2025.
She failed to appear for a scheduled court hearing on June 5, 2025.
A federal arrest warrant was issued shortly after her disappearance.

The FBI is urging anyone with information on Escoe’s whereabouts to contact authorities immediately.

‘Operation Trackside’ Results in 19 Arrests Across Palm Beach and Broward Counties

A major law enforcement operation called Operation Trackside led to the arrest of 19 individuals connected to a drug trafficking organization operating in Palm Beach County and Broward County.

The investigation, which lasted fourteen months, was a collaborative effort between multiple agencies, including the Boynton Beach Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and several local sheriff’s offices and police departments. In light of recent federal orders, the St. Lucie County Sheriff has intensified immigration law enforcement, reflecting broader efforts to address crime and public safety.

Details of the Drug Trafficking Bust

The operation targeted the distribution of fentanyl and cocaine in South Florida communities.
The investigation began after police received an anonymous handwritten letter in July 2024 reporting drug activity.
Law enforcement agencies coordinated to dismantle the organization and make arrests.

Officials describe the outcome as a significant step in reducing the flow of dangerous drugs into the region.

Port St. Lucie Rejects Housing Expansion, Focuses on Land Preservation

Port St. Lucie continues to experience rapid population growth, with more than 50,000 new residents since 2020, bringing the city’s population to approximately 260,000.

Despite the surge in demand for housing, city leaders have decided to reject a proposal to rezone 464 acres near Glades Cut Off Road and the C-24 Canal for hundreds of new homes.

City Council’s Position on Growth

City council members voiced strong opposition to adding more residential developments at a meeting on August 25, 2025.
Officials emphasized the need to balance growth with the preservation of green space.
The city is now pursuing the purchase of land, such as 104 acres at Rosser Lakes, for conservation and recreation.

This decision reflects a shift in priorities as Port St. Lucie seeks sustainable solutions to manage its evolving landscape. In a recent case, Port St. Lucie police arrested a suspect in an overnight double shooting, underscoring ongoing efforts to maintain public safety amid rapid change.

Local High School Band Fundraises for International Performance

The Palm Beach Lakes High School Ram Regiment Band has received an invitation to perform at the 40th annual London New Year’s Day Parade in 2026.

Students and staff are seeking community support to help fund the trip, which represents a unique opportunity for the band to perform on a global stage.

Community Support Needed

Band director and students highlight years of dedication and the significance of the invitation.
Fundraising efforts are underway to cover travel and participation costs.
Supporters can help make this international experience possible for the students.

The band’s story has resonated with many in Palm Beach County, showcasing the importance of arts and education in the community.

Florida Turnpike Crash Victim Remembered in Fort Pierce

Fort Pierce is mourning the loss of Herby Dufresne, a 30-year-old Haitian father who died in a recent crash on Florida’s Turnpike.

Dufresne, who came to the United States in search of work and a better future, leaves behind a grieving family both in Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

Crash Details and Community Impact

The crash involved an undocumented truck driver from India, drawing national attention to immigration issues.
Dufresne’s family and friends remember him as a hard worker full of life.
The tragedy has highlighted the personal stories behind major traffic incidents in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions About FBI Search for Palm Beach County Woman

What is the FBI search in Palm Beach County about?

The FBI is searching for Elaine Angene Escoe, who is accused of leading a $34 million COVID-19 relief fraud scheme. She disappeared just before a scheduled court hearing in June 2025.

How much money was involved in the Palm Beach County COVID fraud case?

The fraud scheme allegedly involved $34 million taken from federal COVID-19 relief programs, including PPP, EIDL, RRF, and SVOG funds.

Are there other major law enforcement operations in Palm Beach County?

Yes, Operation Trackside recently led to 19 arrests for drug trafficking across Palm Beach and Broward counties. Multiple agencies participated in the investigation.