Detroit woman pleads guilty to stealing $2.5 million in decades-long student aid fraud scheme
A Detroit woman accused of running a decade-long student aid scheme, obtaining $2.5 million, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Federal prosecutors say that between July 2015 and July 2025, Michelle Denise Hill submitted aid applications for more than 80 people who appeared as eligible students at Wayne County Community College.
Prosecutors say Hill obtained the individuals' high school diplomas on their behalf, many of which were from the same online school. Hill also completed online coursework for the purported students to extend their eligibility for financial assistance.
The money, roughly $2,530,854, in student aid benefits was distributed, and Hill split the money with the individuals, officials say.
"I feel some type of way because I'm a foster kid and even getting into school is really hard, and for her to steal money that's going for us, that's freaking insane," WCCCD student Indya Nelson told CBS News Detroit.
"I'm very happy that she's getting caught for this. Throw the book at her if you can, cause us kids actually do what's right and be stand-up citizens, and you're clearly not if you're going to be a criminal and steal money from kids. I think it's time for you to stay locked up for a while."
Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 3. Hill faces up to 20 years in prison. She agreed to pay $2,530,854 in restitution to the Department of Education.
"I am proud of the work of OIG Special Agents and our law enforcement partners for their work in this case and their dedication to protecting the integrity of Federal student aid funds," said John Woolley, special agent in charge of the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General's Central Regional Office. "We will continue to pursue those who misappropriate Federal student aid or game the system for their own self-interests. America's students and taxpayers deserve nothing less."
A spokesperson for the Wayne County Community College District sent the following statement:
The welfare and safety of our students is our highest priority.
After identifying an unusual concentration of applicants presenting diplomas from the same online high school, we reported our concerns and fully cooperated with federal and state authorities throughout their investigation. We appreciate the diligence of the full team in resolving this matter and bringing it to a close.
Our commitment remains to provide pathways to better lives through higher education.
