In a recent court case, a Hot Springs man named James Heritage was sentenced to 27 months in prison for fraudulently obtaining pandemic funds. The charges were related to his involvement in the United States Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and several state unemployment benefits programs. Heritage had applied for and received a PPP loan of nearly $184,000 by providing falsified employee and payroll information. Additionally, he fraudulently obtained Pandemic Unemployment Assistance from thirty different states by misrepresenting his eligibility. The case was investigated by various agencies, including the Department of Labor, Federal Bureau of Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Small Business Administration Office of the Inspector General.
Main Content
Hot Springs Man Sentenced to 27 Months for Pandemic Funds Fraud
A resident of Hot Springs, Arkansas, James Heritage, has been sentenced to 27 months in prison for committing fraud related to pandemic funds. The sentencing was announced by David Clay Fowlkes, the United States Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas. In addition to serving prison time, Heritage has been ordered to pay $469,082.73 in restitution.
Background
Overview of the Case
James Heritage pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud against the United States Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and multiple state unemployment benefits administrators. As per the plea documents, Heritage obtained a PPP loan of $183,937.32 by submitting falsified employee and payroll data. He also fraudulently applied for and received Pandemic Unemployment Assistance from thirty different states, falsely claiming eligibility for the benefits.
James Heritage’s Sentencing
Following his guilty plea, James Heritage has been sentenced to serve 27 months in prison. This punishment reflects the severity of his fraudulent activities and their impact on the government’s relief programs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Amount of Restitution Ordered
In addition to the prison sentence, James Heritage has been ordered to pay $469,082.73 in restitution. This amount represents the funds he fraudulently obtained through the PPP loan and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance claims.
Fraudulent Activities
Fraud Against the Paycheck Protection Program
James Heritage’s fraudulent activities involved the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which is administered by the United States Small Business Administration (SBA). He obtained a loan of $183,937.32 through the submission of falsified employee and payroll data.
Fraudulent Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Claims
Alongside defrauding the PPP, James Heritage also fraudulently applied for and received Pandemic Unemployment Assistance. This program provides supplemental unemployment benefits and was offered by thirty different states. Heritage falsely represented his eligibility for these benefits, receiving funds he was not entitled to.
Legislation
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act
The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance are both part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Enacted in March 2020, the CARES Act is a federal law aimed at providing emergency financial assistance to individuals and businesses impacted by the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Investigation
Government Agencies Involved
The investigation into James Heritage’s fraudulent activities was a joint effort involving multiple government agencies. The Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Small Business Administration Office of the Inspector General all played a role in uncovering the fraud.
Assistant United States Attorney’s Role
Assistant United States Attorney Hunter Bridges served as the lead prosecutor in James Heritage’s case. Bridges played a crucial role in presenting the evidence and ensuring that justice was served.
COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force
Purpose
To combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force on May 17, 2021. This task force brings together the resources of the Department of Justice and other government agencies to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in fraudulent activities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Partnerships with Other Agencies
The COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force works in partnership with various government agencies to enhance its efforts. By coordinating with agencies tasked with administering relief programs, the task force aims to prevent fraud. It also identifies resources, techniques, and enforcement mechanisms to detect and apprehend criminal actors involved in pandemic-related fraud.
Preventing and Prosecuting Fraud
One of the main objectives of the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force is to prevent and prosecute fraud related to pandemic funds. By sharing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts, the task force aims to stay one step ahead of fraudulent actors. Efforts to prevent and prosecute fraud are crucial to ensuring that emergency financial assistance reaches those who genuinely need it.
Reporting Fraud
Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF)
The Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) serves as a resource for reporting fraud related to disasters, including fraud related to the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have information about attempted fraud involving COVID-19, you can report it by calling the NCDF Hotline at 866-720-5721. Alternatively, you can submit a complaint using the NCDF Web Complaint Form.
Contact Information
In case of any questions or concerns regarding pandemic funds fraud or related matters, the Western District of Arkansas Main Office can be contacted. Located at 414 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith, AR 72901, the office is available to address any inquiries you may have. Contact information for the office can be obtained via telephone at (479) 783-5125 or through email at USAO-WDAR.
Related Cases
Midway Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking
In a separate case, a man from Midway, Arkansas, was recently sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for drug trafficking. This highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to tackle various criminal activities during the pandemic.
Lavaca Man Sentenced for COVID-19 Health Care Fraud
Another fraudulent case involved a man from Lavaca, Arkansas, who was sentenced for his involvement in a $134 million COVID-19 health care fraud and money laundering scheme. This case further emphasizes the need for vigilance in detecting and prosecuting pandemic-related fraud.
Huntsville Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking
A man from Huntsville, Arkansas, has also been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for drug trafficking. This case serves as a reminder that combating criminal activities remains a priority, even during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Contact Information
Western District of Arkansas Main Office
The Western District of Arkansas Main Office plays a crucial role in addressing legal matters and providing assistance to individuals and businesses regarding pandemic funds fraud or related issues. Located at 414 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith, AR 72901, the main office serves as a point of contact for inquiries or concerns.
Email and Telephone Contact Information
For any queries or communication related to pandemic funds fraud or related matters, the Western District of Arkansas Main Office can be reached via email at USAO-WDAR or by calling (479) 783-5125.
Legal Policies and Privacy
Budget and Performance
The U.S. Department of Justice’s budget and performance records aim to provide transparency and accountability in its operations. By maintaining detailed records, the department ensures that resources are allocated effectively and efficiently.
FOIA
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) grants individuals the right to access information held by federal agencies. By submitting a FOIA request, individuals can obtain records and documents related to various aspects of government operations.
Accessibility
The U.S. Department of Justice is committed to ensuring that its services, facilities, and information are accessible to individuals with disabilities. By complying with accessibility standards and providing reasonable accommodations, the department aims to promote equal access for all.
Information Quality
Maintaining information quality is a priority for the U.S. Department of Justice. By adhering to rigorous standards, the department ensures that the information it disseminates is accurate, reliable, and objective.
Office of the Inspector General
The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is an independent entity within the U.S. Department of Justice. It is responsible for conducting audits, investigations, and inspections to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of department programs and operations.
No FEAR Act Data
The No FEAR Act requires federal agencies to report on trends in Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) complaints, as well as notify employees of their rights under EEO laws. By promoting transparency and accountability, the act aims to prevent workplace discrimination and harassment.
Small Business
Various resources and programs are available to support small businesses, including those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. Department of Justice works in conjunction with other agencies to provide guidance, assistance, and funding opportunities to small businesses.
Vote.gov
Vote.gov is an official government website that provides information on voter registration, absentee voting, and other related topics. By visiting Vote.gov, individuals can access resources to exercise their right to vote and participate in the democratic process.
Español
To cater to a diverse population, the U.S. Department of Justice provides information and services in Spanish. By offering resources and materials in Spanish, the department strives to ensure equal access to justice for Spanish-speaking individuals.