Western New York Couple Arrested For Using Fake Vaccine ID Cards

A couple from West Seneca was arraigned on felony charges for reportedly using a fake vaccine card to gain entrance to a Buffalo Bills home game.

According to Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn, the couple used fake vaccine cards to gain entrance to Highmark Stadium during the opening round of the NFL Playoffs when the Bills hosted the New England Patriots on January 15th, 2022.

The couple, Michael Naab and Amber Naab of West Seneca were each charged with one count of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument in the Second Degree which is a Class “D” felony.

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The couple will be the first in Erie County, to be charged under the “Truth in Vaccination” legislation that was signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul on December 22, 2021. The bill specifies that a vaccination card is considered a “written instrument” under New York State penal laws related to fraud.

After being arraigned in court yesterday, the couple is expected to be back in court for their felony hearing on February 22nd, 2022. If they are convicted they each are facing a maximum of 7 years in prison.

According to the District DA, the Erie County Sheriff’s Office worked with the Erie County Department of Health, New York State Department of Health, and the Buffalo Bills during the investigation into the fraudulent use of the COVID-19 vaccine card.

The Erie County District Attorney has been very vocal about his desire to prosecute people who violate the "truth in Vaccination" law.

As I have stated before if you present a fake vaccine card, you will be prosecuted,” said Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn.

Get more details about the case HERE.