Javar LaJuan Clark, Wire Fraud, North Carolina 2023

A brazen scheme to swindle the government out of nearly $140,000 has landed a Winston-Salem man in hot water. Javar LaJuan Clark, a resident of Winston-Salem, NC, has pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud for fraudulently obtaining an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) authorized under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and administered by the Small Business Association (SBA).

According to court documents, Clark applied for an EIDL loan for a business called ‘Handy Works by J Clark.’ However, the loan application falsified the business’s gross revenues and number of employees. Based on Clark’s fraudulent representations, the SBA granted Clark an EIDL loan of $130,500 and an advance of $10,000.

‘This case highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in government programs,’ said United States Attorney Sandra Hairston. ‘We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that those who seek to exploit these programs are brought to justice.’

Following disbursement of the loan, Clark used the proceeds on trips to Las Vegas and New York City, jewelry, and a house. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration is investigating the case, and it is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Waid.

Clark faces a maximum sentence of twenty years in prison, a period of supervised release of up to three years, and monetary penalties. As part of his plea agreement, Clark also agreed to forfeit the property purchased using the fraudulently obtained funds.

The sentencing hearing is scheduled to take place on August 1, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, courtroom number two, before United States District Judge Thomas D. Schroeder.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of committing financial crimes. As our community continues to rebuild from the effects of the pandemic, it is essential that we hold accountable those who seek to exploit government programs for personal gain.

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