A Bradford couple has been charged for allegedly scamming the Emergency Rental Assistance Program out of more than $3,000.

Desiree Gobin, 26, and Randy Skaggs, 29, both of 39 Gilbert Lane, were each charged with three third-degree felony counts of theft by deception.

According to the criminal complaints, on Nov. 29, Gobin filed an application for federal Emergency Rental Assistance through the McKean County Redevelopment Authority. The funds were available as rental assistance for tenants facing pandemic-related financial hardship in paying overdue and ongoing rent. The funds are paid directly to the landlord.

In her application, Gobin reported that Skaggs was her landlord who lived on Bedford Street. He subsequently received two checks for rent for her, totaling $3,305. However, she failed to mention that she and Skaggs owned the home and Skaggs also lived there, the complaint stated.

At the same time, she was receiving state benefits and claiming Skaggs as a household member, and reporting that she was the owner of the residence, the complaint stated.

The pair were arraigned Wednesday before District Judge Dom Cercone and released on $10,000 unsecured bail each. Both are to appear in Central Court on Oct. 6.