Unsealed FBI documents are raising new questions about who knew what, and when, regarding a multimillion-dollar fraud scheme targeting Guam’s Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program. According to federal court filings, FBI Special Agent Jamie Cavitt detailed that Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio were notified back in 2021 about the ongoing fraud investigation.

The scheme allegedly funneled $1.9 million in PUA funds between July 2020 and September 2021. Seven individuals have since been indicted: Charissa Tenorio, Frankie Rosalin, Tina Sanchez, Winnie Jo Santos, Marlene Pinaula, Matthew Topasna, and Kathleen Peredo.

Court documents show the FBI sought access to personal belongings and business locations tied to Tenorio and Rosalin, who co-own Comfort Cuts and Ground Maintenance, LLC. Investigators allege Charissa Tenorio—who is the lieutenant governor's sister—was aware of the federal probe for years and even contacted witnesses and co-conspirators to coach them on what to say to the FBI.

Special Agent Cavitt wrote that Guam Department of Labor officials also relayed information to Tenorio’s circle, further alerting them about the ongoing probe.

Adelup communications director Krystal Paco-San Agustin recently commented to local media, "The DOL director has never discussed any aspect of any federal investigation with the governor, the lieutenant governor, or the chief of staff.”

As we reported, it was on June 27, Lieutenant Governor Tenorio issued a recorded statement distancing himself from the case after his sister and partner were indicted in the pandemic fraud case, in which he said, "While I am not personally involved in this case, I understand that my association with my family—whether by blood or relationships—has led some to question the integrity of my office and our administration...I had no knowledge of the events alleged in the indictment. I was not aware of the actions that have led to these charges, and I want to make it clear that I am not involved, nor have I been accused of any wrongdoing. I am not under investigation, nor have I ever been, and I have full confidence that the legal process will uncover the facts as they are."

With Adelup denying prior knowledge and federal affidavits suggesting otherwise, the conflicting accounts set the stage for a legal and political storm that’s far from over.