DHS Official on Leave Amid Sugar Daddy Scandal

0:00A high-ranking Department of Homeland Security official is now on administrative leave amid an investigation into claims of a sugar daddy, relationship, heavy spending, and drug use. We're talking about Julia Vervaro, the 29-year-old deputy assistant secretary for counter-terrorism. A formal complaint kicked this off, and she's been sideline while they dig in. The accusations come from a guy named Robert, a divorce dad she met on the dating app, Hinge. A three-month fling reportedly cost him $40,000, including trips to Aruba, Italy, and Switzerland, plus a $3,500 handbag. He says she had a profile on seeking under-the-name Alesha, looking for mutually beneficial setups. Robert filed the complaint with the DHS Inspector General, warning her habits could spark national security risks due to financial pressures. He claims he saw her smoke marijuana about a dozen times and pop-recreational Xanax. She shot back, calling him a mad ex-spinning tails, and admitted to quick airport security,

1:01but denied the rest. DHS won't confirm or deny the probe, sticking to their no-commit policy on investigations. Vervaro insists vacations with boyfriends are normal, and brushed off asking for a credit card as everyday stuff. This hits close to other recent DHS drama, like scandals around the former secretary circle, reminding us how personal slip-ups can shake up top. Security rolls. Be tuned as more drops. I'm Corey with The Story, and you've been listening to Tampa Bay News today, AI-powered local news.