Federal authorities said on Tuesday that seven people in two states have been accused of stealing millions of coronavirus relief money and spending it on luxury products, including a Lamborghini and a Porsche.
The Justice Department said the alleged conspirators, who are based in Texas and Illinois, were charged with conspiracy to commit Internet fraud and wire fraud.
Two of the alleged perpetrators, Amir Aqil, 52, and Siddiq Azimuddin, 41, were also charged with money laundering.
Among the other names listed in the indictment is Bardeeb Al-Basra, 51 years old; Raised bagua, 51; Mayer Misak, 40; Mauricio Navia, 41; And Richard Roth.
According to the administration, the group was alleged to have made dozens of fraudulent loan applications that included fraudulent payroll expenses, tax forms, bank records and other documents.
The indictment alleged that hundreds of forged paychecks were cashed by bogus employees – including Aquil’s 86-year-old mother – at a check cashing shop owned by one of the defendants.
They sought funds worth $ 30 million from Payroll Protection Program, The federal loan program that allocated more than $ 600 billion to help small businesses during the coronavirus pandemic earlier this year, according to the indictment.
The documents say it was awarded nearly $ 16 million before federal agents executed 45 orders, seizing a 2013 Lamborghini, Porsche and properties in an upscale section of Houston.
It was not immediately clear if they had lawyers.
Natalie Sinclair is a contributor at Vaughantoday.ca, covering a wide range of topics including local news, politics, business, technology, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, accurate reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current events and issues that matter to their communities. Her work highlights timely developments, relevant stories, and practical insights in a professional and reader-friendly manner.