Kelli L. Pollard, Education Loan Fraud, Tennessee 2023

Memphis, TN - In a shocking turn of events, Kelli L. Pollard, 50, of Lakeland, Tennessee, has pleaded guilty to education loan fraud. According to a criminal information filed in the United States District Court, Pollard's guilty plea was announced by United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz today.

Pollard's scheme, which spanned from 2017 to 2022, involved the submission of falsified documentation to the University of Memphis Financial Aid Office. The defendant, who attended the University of Memphis as an undergraduate and graduate student, submitted three different fake doctors' notes, falsified medical bills, and a false auto repair bill to obtain federally guaranteed student loans.

The investigation, led by the United States Department of Education Office of the Inspector General and the University of Memphis Police Department, revealed that Pollard had submitted false information for each student loan request over the course of five academic years. The full extent of the damage caused by Pollard's actions remains unclear, but it is evident that her scheme had a significant impact on the University of Memphis and the federal government.

Pollard's guilty plea marks a significant victory for law enforcement and the federal government. Her actions, which were designed to deceive and defraud, have been brought to light, and she will now face the consequences of her actions. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of honesty and integrity in all aspects of life, including education and financial transactions.

The sentencing hearing for Pollard is set for April 23, 2023, before United States District Judge Thomas L. Parker. She faces up to five years' imprisonment, a $20,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. It is worth noting that there is no parole in the federal system.

This case serves as a reminder that education loan fraud is a serious crime with severe consequences. We urge all individuals to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately. Pollard's case is a testament to the dedication and hard work of law enforcement agencies and federal prosecutors who work tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice.

For more information on this case, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or cherri.green@usdoj.gov. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtn/pr/lakeland-woman-pleads-guilty-education-loan-fraud