Man Charged With Fraud After Stealing Millions From Government

We could all use a little extra money. The best way to honorably receive money is to work for it and earn it. However, some people take the lazy way out, instead opting to steal and defraud others for their own benefit. This is a serious crime.

A man from D.C. was charged with theft on August 11 after stealing millions of dollars in government money. The 41-year-old man forged bank records and other paperwork in order to receive these funds. In total, he received more than $2 million in money earmarked for coronavirus relief, as well as $470,000 from the Archdioceses of Washington, which oversees Catholic schools in various Maryland counties. He was an assistant superintendent at the time.

The man used the money for personal use, buying a rowhouse for $1.13 million, as well as a $46,000 sports car. He also dropped $300,000 on a yacht.

The 12-count indictment details the theft schemes the man engaged in between June 2010 and April 2018. The man, who the FBI says has a history of deception, created fake invoices for “anti-bullying, crisis intervention and other programs at roughly 95 Catholic schools overseen by the Archdioceses of Washington. The man would have the archdiocese pay three companies for the services that were never provided. The man owned the companies.

After deceiving the church for eight years, he took things a step further and tried his lying schemes on the government. The government created the Paycheck Protection Program to help struggling businesses with expenses due to reduced revenues from the coronavirus. The man applied for loans as a business that provides emotional support animals. He was approved and he received $2.1 million in funds.

Stealing from the Government

Many people steal from the government. They may fudge numbers on their tax returns. Some continue to receive unemployment benefits after they get a job. They may lie on applications to receive money.

While it may seem harmless, stealing from the government is a federal crime. Stealing not only involves illegally receiving benefits, but also receiving, retaining or concealing anything you know has been stolen, embezzled or converted. Conversion involves commercial paper, such as checks, stocks, bonds and written documents, such as contracts or deeds. The more money you steal, the more punishment you will face.

Contact a Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

People often go to great lengths to get a few extra bucks. When they’re successful, they may engage in even more elaborate schemes, defrauding individuals and businesses of millions of dollars.

Embezzlement and other forms of theft are serious crimes. While these crimes don’t cause physical injury, they do cause financial injury and cause emotional distress as well. You could face felony charges, so seek legal help right away. The Columbia theft lawyers at the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, P.A. can provide you with a solid defense. We have two offices to serve you. Schedule a free consultation by calling (410) 774-5987 or filling out the online form.

Resource:

wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-crime-coronavirus-relief-aid-embezelling/65-3218d3a9-2b46-40c6-8138-ef22e44b23ce

https://www.marylandlawhelp.com/maryland-man-arrested-for-identity-theft-forgery/