The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Washington has spotlighted several significant prosecutions related to pandemic relief fraud during 2024. These cases were handled by the District’s COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force, which was established in February 2022 under the leadership of U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref and White Collar Chief Dan Fruchter.
U.S. Attorney Waldref emphasized her commitment to combating fraud and public corruption, stating that her office's efforts have set a standard for medium-sized U.S. Attorney Offices across the nation. The Strike Force collaborates with over a dozen agencies to investigate and prosecute fraud involving pandemic relief programs such as the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL).
"Many struggling, deserving small businesses requested money from COVID-19 relief programs," said Waldref. "Fraudsters saw these programs as an opportunity to enrich themselves, and when funds ran out, eligible businesses were denied critical funding to keep their doors open."
Since its inception, the Strike Force has charged 37 defendants through indictment or complaint, resulting in 22 felony convictions related to CARES Act funding fraud. Additionally, six civil settlements under the False Claims Act have been reached, with millions recovered in forfeited assets including cash and real property.
Assistant United States Attorney Dan Fruchter praised the Strike Force for embodying "the highest ideals of law enforcement and government – imagination, partnership, dedication, and service to the community." He expressed pride in working with a dedicated team committed to bringing accountability where it is needed.
Special Agent Weston King from the SBA Office of Inspector General also reiterated their commitment to fighting fraud: "The defendants exploited programs designed to help small businesses survive unprecedented challenges."
Several notable cases were highlighted by U.S. Attorney Waldref:
- Tyler Keith Andrews was sentenced in December 2024 for his role in a scheme obtaining over $16 million in COVID-19 relief funds.
- In November 2024, Taylor Jashaun Kendall and Michael Tyriq Allen faced charges related to $300,000 obtained through fraudulent means.
- Antonio Crawford received a prison sentence for submitting false applications totaling more than $750,000.
- BNL Technical Services pleaded guilty in October 2024 for obtaining nearly half a million dollars fraudulently.
- William Philip Werschler faced multiple charges for misusing approximately $1.5 million on luxury items.
- Nathan Michael Triano was sentenced after securing loans worth $140,865 through false information.
- Gilbert Orosco was indicted in August 2024 for allegedly conspiring with others to defraud various state governments.
- Marisa Beck received a prison sentence for falsifying documents to obtain over $368,000.
The Strike Force includes representatives from various federal agencies such as the FBI, IRS, Secret Service among others. Assistant United States Attorneys involved include Dan Fruchter along with Brian M. Donovan and others who prosecuted these cases on behalf of the United States.
An indictment remains an allegation until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court.