May 20, 2025 – State Auditor Shad White announced that Vernell Survillion, an owner of multiple rental properties, has pleaded guilty to one count of Fraudulent Statements.
Survillion submitted fraudulent RAMP (Rental Assistance for Mississippians Program) applications on behalf of tenants renting properties owned by him. The applications contained fraudulent information, including forged signatures, inflated monthly rental amounts, inflated months delinquent, and incorrect occupant information. These actions caused the Mississippi Home Corporation to make payments to Survillion.
“The dedicated team at the State Auditor’s Office will continue to work closely with prosecutors to achieve record results for taxpayers,” said State Auditor Shad White.
Survillion was prosecuted in the Quitman County Circuit Court. Survillion was sentenced to five years non-adjudicated probation and has been ordered to pay $500 in fines and $16,050 in restitution.
Suspected fraud can be reported to the Auditor’s office at any time by clicking the red button at www.osa.ms.gov or calling 1-(800)-321-1275 during normal business hours.
Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates and high school football play-by-play on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.
