Covid-19 Relief Funds Fraud: A DeSoto Woman Sentenced to Federal Penitentiary
A DeSoto woman was sentenced Wednesday to the federal penitentiary after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud involving COVID-19 relief funds, federal prosecutors said in a news release.
A federal judge ordered Shantelle Hawkins, 43, to serve three years and five months and pay $1.8 million in restitution, according to the release.
The statement from prosecutors said Hawkins must also forfeit the residences she purchased with the relief funds.
Hawkins initially pled guilty on Oct. 8, 2024, officials said in the statement.
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The Case Against Shantelle Hawkins
According to the news release, the Dallas County woman submitted 17 fraudulent loan applications to obtain funds from the federal government’s Paycheck Protection Program, or PPP, that began during the pandemic.
Officials said the applications were submitted between May 2020 and March 2021 on behalf of companies Hawkins and family members owned or controlled. Officials did not immediately disclose information about other people involved in the case.
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loans
PPP loans originated with the Small Business Administration and were created to assist firms that were struggling to cover payroll expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The loan applications submitted by Hawkins contained untrue statements about payroll and tax information, according to the news release.
Misuse of Loan Proceeds
Officials said Hawkins used the loan proceeds for personal expenses, including paying off her 2015 Maserati Ghibli, purchasing residential properties in the Dallas area and for other personal expenditures.
Officials did not say when Hawkins would begin serving her sentence or where.
Conclusion
The case of Shantelle Hawkins serves as a reminder of the importance of using COVID-19 relief funds for their intended purpose. The misuse of these funds can have serious consequences, including fines and imprisonment. It is essential for individuals and businesses to be honest and transparent when applying for and using these funds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)?
A: The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is a loan program created by the Small Business Administration to assist firms that were struggling to cover payroll expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Q: What are the consequences of misusing COVID-19 relief funds?
A: The consequences of misusing COVID-19 relief funds can include fines, imprisonment, and forfeiture of assets purchased with the relief funds.
Q: How can individuals and businesses ensure they are using COVID-19 relief funds correctly?
A: Individuals and businesses can ensure they are using COVID-19 relief funds correctly by being honest and transparent when applying for and using these funds, and by using the funds only for their intended purpose.
