David Breen, COVID Relief Fraud, Massachusetts 2026

In a shocking turn of events, a South Carolina businessman has pleaded guilty to COVID relief fraud in Massachusetts. David Breen, a 54-year-old resident of Mount Pleasant, S.C., admitted to misappropriating over $1.2 million in Economic Injury and Disaster Loan (EIDL) money meant for his struggling business.

Breen, who operated 'Pinz,' a bowling alley and entertainment venue in Milford, Mass., had applied for EIDL funds in March 2022. However, instead of using the loan for working capital, he used the money to build a home in South Carolina and purchase two luxury vehicles, including a $111,000 truck and a $98,289 Mercedes.

The charge of theft of government property carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine up to $250,000. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman has scheduled sentencing for June 25, 2026.

The COVID-19 pandemic led to the establishment of various relief programs, including the EIDL program, to help small businesses struggling to stay afloat. However, Breen's actions demonstrate the ease with which scammers can exploit these programs for personal gain.

The US Attorney's Office, in collaboration with Homeland Security Investigations and the Massachusetts Inspector General, investigated the case and brought Breen to justice. The case highlights the importance of close monitoring and oversight of government programs to prevent such abuses.

As the country continues to grapple with the aftermath of the pandemic, cases like this serve as a reminder of the need for vigilance and accountability in the distribution of relief funds.

The COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force, established by the Attorney General in May 2021, plays a crucial role in combating and preventing pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force has been instrumental in identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes.

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it to the Department of Justice's National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form.

The case against David Breen serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of exploiting government programs for personal gain. As the investigation into Breen's actions continues, it is clear that justice will be served.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/pr/south-carolina-businessman-who-operated-bowling-entertainment-business-massachusetts-0