Law enforcement agencies have allocated substantial resources to prosecuting individuals accused of misusing pandemic relief programs. A recent case in Massachusetts highlights the severe consequences for those charged with the federal offenses often associated with misuse of pandemic relief funds.

Misappropriation of COVID-19 Relief Funds in the News
Jesse Lelievre, a businessman from North Andover, Massachusetts, was sentenced for misappropriating funds from the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. This program was designed to help small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Lelievre, the owner of Paramount Plumbing & Heating LLC, secured an EIDL loan in 2021, agreeing to use the funds strictly as working capital for his business. Instead of adhering to this agreement, he diverted approximately $179,000 of the loan to personal expenses, including purchasing a diamond ring and remodeling his home.

In September 2024, Lelievre pleaded guilty to theft of government property. He was sentenced to two years of supervised release, including five months of home detention, and ordered to pay $179,090 in restitution.

Federal Sentencing: The Stakes Are High
Theft of government property is a federal offense with severe penalties. For property valued over $1,000, the maximum sentence is 10 years of imprisonment, with additional fines. Misuse of PPP Loans and EIDL loans often result in serious punishments owing to the federal nature of many of the crimes involved, like theft of government funds or wire fraud.

The Importance of a Strong Criminal Defense
For anyone accused of federal crimes like theft of government property, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Federal investigations are thorough, and the penalties upon conviction can be life-altering. The complexities of these cases require the expertise of a skilled criminal defense attorney who understands federal law and can advocate effectively on behalf of the accused.

If you or someone you know is facing federal charges, don’t wait to seek experienced legal representation. The experienced white collar defense attorneys at Dhar Law, LLP have defended countless serious cases in state and federal courts, including Pandemic relief fraud cases. The right defense can protect your future. Don’t hesitate to call a member of our ppp fraud defense attorneys. Please contact our criminal defense team today at (617) 880-6155 to learn more.