A man from Bristol County who owns a car dealership has been sentenced to prison after being convicted of fraudulently using a federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan to purchase a $750,000 residence, according to prosecutors.
Investigators determined that the funds—intended to help businesses maintain payroll and operating expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic—were instead diverted for personal use. Authorities said the defendant submitted false information to obtain the loan and later used a substantial portion of the money toward the home purchase.
Federal officials emphasized that PPP loans were designed to support struggling businesses and workers during an unprecedented economic crisis, and misuse of those funds constitutes serious fraud. In addition to prison time, the court may require restitution and financial penalties.
The case underscores ongoing efforts by the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute pandemic-related financial crimes. Officials continue to encourage the public to report suspected fraud involving relief programs.
