⏱ 2 min read
Robert A. Terrell, a 51-year-old business owner from Washington, D.C. and Bowie, Maryland, has pleaded guilty to stealing $1.35 million in COVID-19 relief funds meant for his company, District Logistics LLC. The crime occurred between July 2020 and January 2022, when Terrell falsified documents to secure the funds. Terrell’s actions were a blatant abuse of the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, which was designed to help struggling businesses during the pandemic.
Terrell’s company, District Logistics LLC, received an initial $125,800 in EIDL funds in July 2020. He then applied for two modifications, receiving an additional $384,100 in September 2021. Terrell’s greed didn’t stop there, as he sought a second modification requesting $2 million. However, his scheme eventually caught up with him, and he now faces sentencing on February 4, 2027.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro condemned Terrell’s actions, stating that he ‘lied to steal over a million dollars meant to keep struggling businesses afloat, then gambled much of it away.’ Pirro’s office will continue to aggressively pursue those who misuse federal programs and enforce strict protections for taxpayer resources.
The case highlights the importance of accountability and the need for strict oversight of federal programs. As the pandemic continues to affect businesses and individuals, it’s crucial that relief funds are used for their intended purpose, rather than being exploited by dishonest individuals like Terrell.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: DC
- Location: DC
- Source: DOJ Press Release
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News