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Louisiana PPP Loan Fraud Lawyers
Last Updated on: 9th January 2025, 09:59 pm
Louisiana PPP Loan Fraud Lawyers
Over 50 Years Of Combined Experience
We are Spodek Law Group, a nationally recognized criminal defense law firm. We have a team of attorneys who share over 50 years of combined experience defending clients in state and federal courts. If you’re in Louisiana and worried about allegations of PPP loan fraud, we understand the gravity of this situation. Our mission is to provide the best possible legal representation at every step of your case – and to protect your future. PPP accusations in Louisiana are hard to deal with.
Understanding Why This Is a Federal Case
PPP loan fraud is typically charged under federal statutes because the Department of Justice (DOJ) oversees offenses that involve federally funded programs. Common criminal charges include:
- 18 U.S.C. §1343 (Wire Fraud) for submitting documents electronically under false pretenses
- 18 U.S.C. §1344 (Bank Fraud) for deceiving a financial institution
- 18 U.S.C. §1014 (False Statements to a Financial Institution) for lying on loan applications
Because the Paycheck Protection Program is backed by federal funds, prosecutors in Louisiana often bring the case to federal court. Nonetheless, we’ve seen instances where state authorities also press related charges, which makes the situation more complex. At Spodek Law Group, we have experience handling tough cases nationwide, and can handle these dual-jurisdiction issues.
Potential Penalties and Federal Sentencing Guidelines
Federal judges typically consult the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines to determine penalties. These guidelines look at factors such as the amount of money involved, the sophistication of the alleged scheme, and your criminal history. Penalties can include fines, restitution, and prison time. In some cases, the guidelines leave little room for leniency, that’s why you want someone who is pragmatic, and understands the dire situation you’re in.
Double Jeopardy Concerns
Our clients often ask, “Can I be prosecuted twice for the same PPP loan fraud allegations—once by Louisiana authorities and once by the federal government?” The Fifth Amendment protects you from double jeopardy by the same “sovereign.” But because the federal and state governments are considered separate sovereigns, there are scenarios where both can file charges for the same conduct. We look closely at how each set of charges is structured, and if we find a violation of double jeopardy, we will work to poke holes in the prosecutor’s case.
Roleplaying Defense Strategies
When you contact Spodek Law Group, we look to create a defense that fits your situation. Below are scenarios reflecting our approach to PPP loan fraud cases in Louisiana:
- Mistaken Identity or Unauthorized Use
- Scenario: You discover your business name and tax ID were used by someone else to secure a PPP loan. You had no knowledge of this activity.
- Our Strategy: We collect evidence, including digital forensics and account records, proving you never controlled or authorized the application. We highlight the lack of any financial trail linking you to the funds. We work to dismiss charges on grounds you lacked both intent and participation.
- Good Faith Misinterpretation of Loan Rules
- Scenario: You believed you accurately calculated payroll and headcount, but you’re now accused of inflating figures.
- Our Strategy: Under 18 U.S.C. §1014, the prosecution must show you acted “knowingly.” We argue you made a genuine mistake, backed by inaccurate accounting or evolving SBA guidelines. We emphasize that you had no criminal intent and relied on information you believed to be correct.
- Entrapment by Government Agents or Informants
- Scenario: A government representative or third-party consultant encouraged you to report inflated payroll to qualify for a larger PPP loan. Then they turned around and reported you.
- Our Strategy: Entrapment means the criminal idea originated with the government. We examine emails, text messages, phone records, and any guidance provided. If we prove the concept of fraud came from them, we assert entrapment as a defense.
- Illegal Search and Seizure
- Scenario: Federal agents raid your home or office, seizing computers, cellphones, and records without a valid warrant.
- Our Strategy: The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. We file motions to suppress any evidence obtained unlawfully. If the court rules in our favor, the charges against you may be dismissed.
Protecting Your Future
If you’re convicted of PPP loan fraud, you could face prison time, hefty fines, restitution, and the possibility of losing professional licenses. Your personal and professional life could be impacted for years to come. We don’t want that to happen. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of federal court procedures and know how to leverage any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. We’re here to defend you at every step, and we are unafraid of going to trial if that’s what’s needed.
Why Choose Spodek Law Group
- Over 50 Years of Combined Experience
Our attorneys have decades of experience fighting criminal cases nationwide. We’re prepared to do the same for you. - Nationwide Reputation
Many attorneys throughout the country refer challenging cases to us. We’re selective about who we work with, and we focus on providing a high level of service. - 24/7 Availability
We know the stakes are high. Our attorneys are available around the clock to offer a risk-free consultation. Ask us anything about your situation. - Transparent Billing
We believe in being upfront about our fees. We don’t want you to face any surprises. We focus on building trust and getting results.
How to Begin
The moment you realize you’re under investigation for PPP loan fraud, call us. Before speaking to federal agents or turning over documents, talk to our legal team. We can help you manage this stressful process, and we’ll stand by you when dealing with federal prosecutors, Louisiana investigators, and even potential media coverage.