R
osemary Tucker, the founder of Hoodies 4 Healing, was taken into custody on Monday on allegations that she ran a rental‑fraud scheme using a stolen identity. The nonprofit, which sells sweatshirts to fund weekly meals for downtown Houston’s homeless, has been thrust into the spotlight after the arrest. City Councilman Edward J. Pollard, who had previously appeared with Tucker on social media, announced that his office will no longer engage with the organization and is conducting a full review. Pollard clarified that no public funds were ever directed to Hoodies 4 Healing and stressed that the actions of a few should not tarnish the work of volunteers and partners who serve the city’s homeless population.
Tucker’s real‑estate license has been suspended since 2018, according to state records. She and licensed realtor Michael Okokhere allegedly used a stolen identity to secure leases, then sublet the properties to tenants and pocket the rent. The pair were apprehended after a month‑long investigation by the Houston Police Department’s Major Offenders Division and have since been released on bond.
With nearly 100,000 followers on Facebook, Tucker regularly posts videos of the feeding events and shares photos with various elected officials. In a statement to KPRC 2 News, Pollard stressed the importance of due process and the need to protect the reputation of those who volunteer in good faith. He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to serving Houston’s homeless and pledged to partner with reputable organizations.
Congressman Al Green, who also appeared in photos with Tucker, said he is unaware of her or her nonprofit and expressed surprise that the allegations had not surfaced earlier. Investigators have yet to establish a direct link between the fraudulent proceeds and Hoodies 4 Healing, though an arrest warrant suggests some of the illicit funds may have been used to pay for Tucker’s Christian apparel line, a car loan, and gym memberships. Tucker’s attorney told KPRC 2 News that she intends to contest the charges in court.
