Maher Khalil is a longtime Jersey City, New Jersey resident and former Director of the Jersey City Department of Health and Human Services. He was placed on administrative leave from his position in April 2021 amid a federal investigation into the misuse of city procurement cards funded by COVID-19 relief programs. Prosecutors alleged that between March 2020 and April 2021, Khalil made approximately $143,000 in unauthorized personal purchases using the cards, including luxury handbags and jewelry from Gucci and Louis Vuitton, trips to Disney World and Dubai, spa treatments, and high-end restaurant meals. The scandal prompted widespread criticism of Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop's administration, with accusations of favoritism as Khalil had received rapid promotions within city government. On August 10, 2023, Khalil, then 49 years old, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Newark to one count of theft concerning programs receiving federal funds, facing up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. On February 29, 2024, he was sentenced to three years of probation, full restitution of $143,439.68, and 100 hours of community service, avoiding incarceration. The case highlighted vulnerabilities in municipal spending oversight during the pandemic and led to policy changes in Jersey City's procurement practices.