⏱ 2 min read
Brandon Millender, a 24-year-old Buffalo man, has been indicted for his role in a COVID-19 related fraud scheme that targeted financial institutions and the Small Business Administration (SBA) between April 2021 and August 2025. Millender allegedly conspired with others to submit fraudulent Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loan applications and loan forgiveness applications, using non-existent businesses and stolen identities. The scheme affected several financial institutions, including Key Bank and the SBA.
Millender’s alleged scheme involved creating fake email addresses, bank accounts, and online profiles using stolen personal information, including social security numbers and addresses. He then used these accounts to receive, conceal, and spend the proceeds of the scheme. The indictment also alleges that Millender attempted to obstruct the federal investigation by trying to influence an individual to provide false information to investigators.
The indictment charges Millender with 10 counts, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and concealment money laundering. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York.
The investigation into Millender’s alleged scheme was conducted by the FBI and other federal agencies. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat COVID-19 related fraud and protect the integrity of federal programs.
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📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: New York
- Location: NY
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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