A Weymouth man has pleaded guilty in federal court to participating in a scheme to defraud the government by submitting fraudulent claims to the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Dominik Manigo, 26, admitted guilt to one count of wire fraud conspiracy and one count of wire fraud. Prosecutors say Manigo, along with co-defendant Nelson Roche Diaz, falsely claimed unemployment benefits by fabricating employment information related to a Boston-area restaurant.
According to court documents, Manigo and Roche submitted false applications for pandemic-related aid in May 2020, alleging they had lost jobs due to COVID-19. To support these applications, they submitted fraudulent letters asserting that their employment had been affected—despite neither having worked at the restaurant in question. Each allegedly received over $43,000 in benefits through the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance portal, exploiting a system designed to support workers in genuine need.
Wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud are serious federal crimes. Each count carries a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. While actual sentences vary depending on the facts of the case and the defendant’s criminal history, the penalties reflect the gravity of defrauding public assistance programs, especially during a national emergency.
This prosecution is part of a broader effort by the U.S. Department of Justice and the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to combat pandemic-related fraud. Federal authorities continue to investigate and prosecute individuals who exploited relief programs at the expense of taxpayers and legitimate recipients. Those charged with these offenses are advised to seek experienced criminal defense counsel, as early legal intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of their case.
If You Are Under Investigation or Have Been Charged with PPP Fraud or Covid Fraud
Hiring an experienced PPP loan fraud lawyer and white collar crimes defense attorney is essential. To prove a crime beyond reasonable doubt the prosecution must have evidence that goes beyond suspicious patterns in the data. An experienced criminal defense attorney will defend your rights in court and scrutinize all the evidence against you. At Dhar Law, LLP, we are award winning white collar defense attorneys who have defended countless serious crimes in state and federal court. If you or someone you know is being investigated for PPP Loan Fraud, please don’t hesitate to contact our experienced criminal defense team immediately.
Contact us today at 617-880-6155 to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you navigate federal charges and fight for your rights and your future.
