Law Office of Thomas A. Johnson
916-248-8598
Law Office of Thomas A. Johnson
916-248-8598

Strategic Federal And State Criminal Defense

Leverage Our Experience In Criminal Defense For PPP Fraud Charges

The federal government has upped efforts to investigate allegations of fraud related to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). These investigations have led to serious legal challenges for individuals and businesses accused of misusing loan funds. Suppose your business is under investigation for PPP fraud. In that case, working with an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect your rights and build a robust defense is vital.

At the Law Office of Thomas A. Johnson, our attorney brings over 40 years of trial experience to every case. Located in Sacramento, California, our firm is led by Thomas A. Johnson, a distinguished attorney listed on Super Lawyers since 2012. Through Thomas’s background as a former prosecutor, we understand how the other side operates and leverage this knowledge to anticipate and counter their strategies. Our commitment to excellence and client advocacy makes us a trusted choice for those facing PPP fraud allegations.

What Is PPP?

The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was a federal initiative meant to help businesses financially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its primary goal was to help companies retain employees by offering forgivable loans for payroll and other essential expenses.

Due to the program’s popularity, millions of businesses in California and nationwide applied for PPP loans. However, with such high demand, reports of fraudulent applications and misuse of funds have drawn intense scrutiny from federal agencies.

How Do PPP Fraud Cases Arise?

PPP fraud investigations begin with flagged discrepancies in loan applications or usage reports. Federal agencies, such as the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Small Business Administration (SBA), may launch inquiries based on:

  • Inflated payroll figures
  • False claims about business operations
  • Misuse of loan funds for personal expenses

Whistleblower reports or audits can also trigger these investigations. Given the digital and financial paper trails inherent in PPP applications, defending against these allegations requires attention to detail and strategic planning from an experienced criminal defense lawyer.

Potential Penalties For PPP Fraud

The penalties for PPP fraud can be severe, including:

  • Federal prison sentences that range from months to years
  • Hefty fines
  • Restitution orders to repay misused funds
  • Damage to personal and professional reputations

Courts take these cases seriously. Therefore, a strong legal defense is essential to mitigate these consequences.

We Can Help

If you face PPP fraud allegations in Sacramento, California, the Law Office of Thomas A. Johnson can guide you through every step of the process. Call 916-248-8598 today or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.