Scammer accused of fraudulently marrying Steve Harvey’s co-host, pilfering $750K

A Georgia man is accused of fraudulently marrying Steve Harvey’s radio co-host, Shirley Strawberry, and using her notoriety to scam around 25 victims out of more than $750,000.

Earnest Williams, 57, was indicted by a Fulton County Grand Jury on April 23 on 39 counts of fraud. According to court documents, from December 1, 2009, through June 30, 2022, Williams engaged in racketeering activity in Fulton County, other places in Georgia, and other states.

Williams referred to himself as a businessman and stole thousands of dollars from his victims, which included motorcycles, personal vehicles, trailers, automotive parts, and more. He would primarily scam women, promising to help them with their new business ventures, promote their existing business ventures, or help them build their brand.

According to court documents, Williams knowingly entered into a fraudulent marriage with Strawberry, the co-host of “The Steve Harvey Morning Show,” to use her high-profile celebrity to persuade his victims into believing he was a legitimate businessman.

Strawberry filed for divorce on April 17, but court records show they had been separated since March 2022.

Williams recruited multiple co-conspirators, such as Erica King, also known as Erica Hughley. According to court documents, Williams “allegedly solicited King to fraudulently assume the identities of multiple attorneys licensed to practice law in Georgia to deceive law enforcement and the courts, including by appearing in court and by falsely and fraudulently representing Williams in hearings.”

Williams and King were arrested in October 2023 after Roswell police discovered their schemes. Five of the fraud counts Williams is facing exceed $24,999 in value, and if found guilty, will carry a two to 20-year sentence. Another 10 counts at $25,000 carry a one to 10-year sentence.

If Williams is found guilty of filing a false marriage license, he faces one to 10 years in prison and a fine of $10,000.