FLORIDA — Seventeen employees of the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) are facing federal criminal charges related to alleged fraud in connection with COVID-19 pandemic relief programs.
In all of these cases, the defendants are accused of planning to scam the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and participating lenders by falsely applying for loans and other help through these programs. The accused individuals allegedly received $495,171 in assistance unlawfully, reportedly using the funds for their personal gain.
During initial hearings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Patrick M. Hunt in Fort Lauderdale, it was revealed that the BSO employed all the defendants during the alleged schemes.
Broward County Sheriff Gregory Tony emphasized his commitment to transparency and accountability, stating that the BSO initiated the investigation in November 2021 after becoming aware of PPP fraud as an emerging trend within public service agencies. More than 100 employees were found to have submitted applications for PPP loans, and only those who did so illegally are subject to criminal investigation.
“After being notified that BSO personnel may have participated in fraudulent schemes to defraud the federal government, I ordered an agency-wide investigation of all 5,600 employees, from top to bottom,” said Tony.
“For five years, I’ve maintained an organization committed to transparency and accountability. I will continue to expect integrity and commitment to excellence from every BSO employee.”
The announcement by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida includes details of the specific cases, including charges against each individual, such as wire fraud and related allegations. The maximum sentences for these convictions are outlined as well.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI, and other agencies have played a crucial role in uncovering and pursuing these cases of alleged fraud.
An indictment, information, and complaint contain mere allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
