Baltimore woman faces federal fraud charges with more than $1.6 million in Covid relief funds – CBS Baltimore
BALTIMORE (WJZ) – A Baltimore woman faces federal charges for allegedly fraudulently obtaining more than $1.6 million in COVID-19 relief funds.
A federal indictment Wednesday alleges Nichelle Henson, 35, fraudulently applied as multiple businesses to obtain Economic Disaster Loans and Loans Salary Protection Program.
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“It is a pity that cheatU.S. attorneys try to capitalize on this global pandemic to their own pockets,” said US Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek Barron. “As charged in indictment unsealed today, Nichelle Henson allegedly cheatraised more than $1.6 million in federal funds at the expense of honest business owners who are actually experiencing financial hardship as a result of COVID-19. ”
According to indictment 18, Henson established six businesses in the State of Maryland and opened bank accounts for each, but records show that the businesses never had any employees. She is accused of making false statements in fraudulent job applications such as the revenue achieved and the number of people employed.
Under EIDL grants, Henson has raised $18,000 and more than $1.6 million through PPP funds.
Henson is alleged to have used the money for personal cosmetic surgery, home improvements, rent and utilities as well as household expenses.
If convicted, Henson faces a maximum sentence of 35 years in federal prison. Her first court appearance is December 16.
https://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2021/12/15/baltimore-woman-faces-federal-fraud-charges-for-over-1-6m-in-covid-relief-funds/ Baltimore woman faces federal fraud charges with more than $1.6 million in Covid relief funds – CBS Baltimore