Massive COVID-19 Loan Fraud Takedown Announced

A coordinated effort uncovered over $245 million in fraudulent loans from federal COVID-19 relief programs.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida has revealed a significant indictment as part of a nationwide crackdown on COVID-19 related fraud. Led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, this extensive effort involved the collaboration of the Small Business Administration and its Office of Inspector General. The operation targeted fraudulent activities within the Paycheck Protection Program and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. Both the Northern and Middle Districts of Florida played crucial roles in this enforcement action. Together, they exposed more than $245 million in fraudulent COVID-era loans. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe has confirmed the announcement of multiple criminal charges and proceedings in connection to this scheme.