Detroit PPP – SBA – EIDL Loan Fraud Lawyers

Detroit PPP and EIDL Fraud: What Business Owners Need to Know

The COVID-19 pandemic hit businesses hard. To help, the government offered relief programs like the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. But some folks took advantage and committed fraud.

Now prosecutors in Detroit are cracking down on PPP and EIDL fraud. People are facing charges like wire fraud and bank fraud. If convicted, they can go to prison for years and pay massive fines. Yikes!

Big PPP and EIDL Fraud Cases in Detroit

Here are some of the biggest PPP and EIDL fraud cases in Detroit lately:

• A Commerce Township man pleaded guilty to stealing $851,000 in PPP and EIDL loans. He’s looking at up to 30 years behind bars. [1]
• Six people from Detroit were charged with stealing $2.5 million in PPP money. They blew it all on fancy cars and stuff. [2]
• The owner of an IT company in Southfield allegedly got $724,000 in fake PPP and EIDL loans. He bought a Cadillac Escalade and Dodge Charger. [3]
• Two brothers from Detroit stole $1.6 million in PPP loans using a shell company and phony payrolls. [4]

Prosecutors are throwing the book at people exploiting these emergency loan programs. And rightfully so!

The Laws Folks Are Breaking

When charging pandemic fraud, prosecutors often use laws like:

• Wire fraud – Using interstate wires to rip someone off. Up to 20 years behind bars. [5]
• Bank fraud – Tricking a bank. 30 years maximum.
• Money laundering – Shuffling around dirty money. Can get you 20 years.
• Identity theft – Using someone else’s info without permission. Adds a guaranteed 2 years in prison.

There are other charges too, like false statements and conspiracy. Penalties add up fast. These aren’t slap-on-the-wrist crimes.

Possible Defenses

Accused fraudsters do have some defense options, like:

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

Load more

Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

• No criminal intent – Maybe it was an honest mistake?
• Coercion – If you were forced into it.
• Statute of limitations – Charges filed too late.
• Entrapment – If the government crossed a line.

A good lawyer will dig into the facts and see if any defenses could get charges lowered or dismissed.

Choosing the Right Detroit Lawyer

Picking the right lawyer is super important. Here’s how:

• Find someone experienced in federal fraud cases. They’re totally different from state crimes.
• Choose a lawyer familiar with PPP and EIDL rules.
• Pick someone who regularly handles federal cases in Detroit.
• Look for great case results.
• Make sure you’re comfortable with them!

If You’re Under Investigation

If investigators contact you about possible PPP or EIDL fraud, do this:

• Don’t talk to them until you have a lawyer.
• Gather up all relevant records.
• Call an experienced federal defense attorney right away.
• Follow your lawyer’s advice on responding to subpoenas or warrants.
• Have your lawyer engage with investigators for you.

With prompt legal help, some cases can be resolved before charges are even filed. So don’t delay!

The Bottom Line

PPP and EIDL fraud can ruin companies and lives. But the right lawyer can analyze the facts and build the strongest case. Don’t go it alone if accused of pandemic loan fraud in Detroit.

Detroit PPP Loan Fraud Lawyers – What You Need to Know

The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) offered a lifeline to small businesses during COVID-19. But some folks saw it as an opportunity for fraud. Now federal prosecutors in Detroit are cracking down hard on PPP loan scams.

Defendants are getting charged with serious crimes like wire fraud and bank fraud. If convicted, they face years in prison and massive fines. They also have to pay back all the stolen PPP funds. It’s a huge mess.

So if you’re accused of PPP loan fraud in Detroit, you need an experienced lawyer on your side ASAP. Let’s break down what you need to know.

Major PPP Fraud Cases in Detroit

There have been some crazy PPP fraud cases in Detroit, like:

• A Commerce Township man who pleaded guilty to stealing $851,000 in PPP loans. He’s looking at up to 30 years behind bars. [1]
• Six people charged with conspiring to steal $2.5 million in PPP money. They blew it on fancy cars and vacations. [2]
• The owner of a Southfield IT company who allegedly got $724,000 in fraudulent PPP loans. He bought a Cadillac Escalade and Dodge Charger. [3]
• Two Detroit brothers accused of stealing $1.6 million through fake payrolls and shell companies. [4]

Prosecutors throw the book at defendants in these pandemic fraud cases. The penalties are no joke.

Federal Laws Broken

Common charges in PPP fraud cases include:

• Wire fraud – Using interstate wires to execute a fraud scheme. Up to 20 years in prison. [5]
• Bank fraud – Knowingly defrauding a financial institution. Punishable by up to 30 years behind bars. [6]
• Money laundering – Engaging in shady financial transactions with dirty money.
• Identity theft – Using someone else’s personal information without permission.

Penalties stack up fast with multiple charges. You need an attorney to fight back.

Building a Strong Defense

There are viable defense strategies, like:

• Arguing you lacked criminal intent if it was an honest mistake.
• Claiming coercion if you participated under duress.
• Using the statute of limitations if too much time has passed.
• Asserting entrapment if the government crossed a line.

An experienced lawyer can analyze the facts and determine the best defense approach.

Choosing the Right Detroit PPP Fraud Lawyer

Picking the right attorney is critical. Look for:

• Extensive experience in federal white collar criminal defense.
• Deep knowledge of the CARES Act and PPP rules.
• A strong track record litigating in Detroit’s federal courts.
• Great past case results.
• Someone you feel comfortable working with.

Firms like The Mike Morse Law Firm, Jaffe Raitt Heuer & Weiss, P.C., and The Federal Law Group PLLC are known for skilled PPP fraud defense in Detroit.

If You’re Under Investigation

If contacted by investigators regarding PPP fraud, smart steps include:

• Don’t talk to them until you have legal counsel.
• Gather and preserve all relevant records.
• Hire an experienced federal defense lawyer right away.
• Follow your attorney’s advice on responding to subpoenas and warrants.
• Have your lawyer engage with investigators for you.

With prompt legal help, some cases can potentially get resolved before charges are filed. So act fast.

The Bottom Line

PPP loan fraud allegations can destroy companies and lives. But the right Detroit lawyer can thoroughly analyze the facts and build the strongest possible defenses. Don’t go it alone if accused of PPP fraud.