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Grimy Times Exclusive: Andre Johnson Charged with Wire Fraud in Illinois
PEORIA, Ill. – In a shocking turn of events, a federal grand jury has indicted Andre Johnson, 25, of Peoria, Illinois, on three counts of wire fraud and one count of making a false statement. The indictment alleges that Johnson committed the offenses from May 2020 through September 2021 in Peoria County, Illinois.
According to the indictment, Johnson fraudulently obtained pandemic-related benefits via the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) administered through the Small Business Administration (SBA). The indictment alleges that Johnson made false statements to obtain the benefits, which are intended to help people and businesses suffering as a result of the pandemic.
Johnson has been issued a summons to appear in federal court in Peoria for arraignment on April 12, 2023. If convicted, the maximum statutory penalty for each offense of wire fraud or mail fraud is 20 years’ imprisonment, a three-year term of supervised release, and restitution. The statutory maximum penalty for making a false statement is five years’ imprisonment, a three-year term of supervised release, and restitution.
The investigation was conducted by the Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office. Criminal Chief Darilynn J. Knauss is representing the government in the prosecution.
COVID-19 disaster relief and enhanced unemployment benefits are intended to help people and businesses suffering as a result of the pandemic. If members of the public suspect anyone fraudulently obtained or misused benefits, they should contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NDCF) Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or submit the NCDF Web Complaint Form.
Members of the public are reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation; the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Key Facts
- State: Illinois
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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