⏱ 2 min read
A 51-year-old former Veterans Affairs employee, Denise Baez, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud for scamming $41,666 in Covid-19 benefits in Boston. Baez, from Brockton, submitted false applications for Paycheck Protection Program loans, claiming she earned income from a sole proprietorship. She used the money for personal expenses, then submitted loan forgiveness applications, falsely claiming the funds were spent on payroll.
The scheme began when Baez submitted two applications for PPP loans, attaching fraudulent tax documents to support her false claims. The loans were approved, and she received $41,666. However, instead of using the money for business expenses, Baez spent it on personal expenses.
Baez pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud on July 16, 2026, in federal court in Boston. She faces up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gain or loss. Sentencing is scheduled for October 27, 2026.
The case was investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Department of Labor, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Sullivan.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: Massachusetts
- Location: MA
- Source: DOJ Press Release
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News