A press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office reveals that a woman from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has been sentenced to 13 months in federal prison for fraudulently misusing government COVID-19 relief funds. Gernesia Williams, 47, was found guilty of improperly using over $100,000 in loan proceeds obtained through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. Shockingly, part of the funds were even spent on a destination wedding in Florida.
Williams received her sentence from U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson. In addition to her prison term, she was directed to serve three years of supervised release. Furthermore, Williams was ordered to pay a restitution of $110,030.47 to the government.
From April 2020 to January 2023, Williams obtained EIDL loans with the intention of using the funds to sustain her business during the challenging times brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, contrary to the stipulated guidelines, Williams diverted the loan proceeds towards personal expenses, splurging over $30,000 on jewelry and more than $20,000 on her wedding in Florida.
The misuse of federal funds is occurring at a time when authorities are actively cracking down on individuals who exploit relief programs related to the pandemic. This particular case adds to the increasing number of fraud convictions that have been seen nationwide.
During their investigation, federal investigators, including the FBI and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, discovered the fraudulent activity. The prosecution was led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Wallace.
The case is a timely reminder for residents of Florida and beyond to report any suspected fraud linked to COVID-19 relief programs. If you have any information, you can reach out to the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or file a complaint online at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Florida continues to see its fair share of cases involving individuals, businesses, and others being prosecuted for abusing government pandemic assistance. This recent sentencing adds to the long list of such cases.