Defending Against Federal COVID-19 Fraud Charges

The Covid-19 pandemic continues to have lasting effects on our lives, including legal risks for companies in the US. Among these are the risks of facing civil or criminal charges stemming from federal COVID fraud investigations.

At Cheronis & Parente LLC, we understand the gravity of these allegations. Consequently, we are dedicated to providing robust defense strategies to protect our clients.

Navigating the Complex Landscape of Federal COVID-19 Fraud Allegations

During the height of the pandemic, the government provided COVID relief funding to assist individuals and businesses. These funds were meant to provide relief and economic security to those who needed them most. Unfortunately, some were fraudulently obtained by those who were ineligible to receive them.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and other federal agencies have ramped up efforts to target fraudulent business practices that took place during the pandemic. This heightened scrutiny affects large companies, small businesses, their owners, and executives across all industries. Healthcare providers, in particular, face significant risks due to their frontline role in combating the virus.

Understanding the federal statutes enacted during the pandemic is crucial in navigating these legal challenges. These include laws establishing the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and additional employee rights,

Understanding Federal COVID-19 Fraud

“Fraud” at the federal level encompasses both civil and criminal offenses. Civil fraud cases may not need proof of intent to defraud, but criminal fraud cases do. Intent can be inferred or created.

Due to the widespread occurrence of fraud during the COVID-19 crisis, federal authorities are aggressively prosecuting both civil and criminal cases. Investigations developed by the Covid-19 fraud enforcement task force can escalate quickly, putting companies and individuals at significant risk for substantial penalties.

Examples of COVID-19 Fraud

Here are ten examples of federal charges related to COVID fraud that companies, healthcare providers, and individuals may face:

• Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Fraud: This includes bank fraud, wire fraud, making false statements, aggravated identity theft, and conspiracy. Extensive audits and investigations by the DOJ, SBA OIG, FBI, and IRS-CI target companies that received significant PPP loans.
• Laboratory COVID-19 Testing Fraud: Allegations include charging for tests without providing results and importing unauthorized testing kits.
• Sale of Unauthorized or Unproven COVID-19 Home Testing Kits: Companies must prove their kits are authorized and substantiate any marketing claims.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Fraud: Charges include collecting payments for undelivered PPE, supplying lower-quality PPE, making false statements to secure contracts, and selling substandard PPE.
• Hoarding and Price Gouging: Allegations involve stockpiling essential products and exploiting the crisis for profit.
• Securities Fraud Pertaining to COVID-19 Disclosures: Public companies must disclose financial impacts of the pandemic to avoid fraud allegations.
• Employment Fraud: Violations include failing to grant leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and misrepresenting employee rights.
• Business and Government Contract Fraud: This includes misrepresentations in contracts, particularly those involving PPE supply to the federal government.
• Healthcare Fraud: Providers must comply with Medicare and Medicaid guidelines and avoid violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute.
• Tax Fraud: The IRS monitors for tax fraud related to employment-related tax credits, PPP funds, and underreporting income from PPE and testing kit sales.

Our Defense Strategy

At Cheronis & Parente LLC, our Covid fraud defense lawyers provide a comprehensive defense strategy tailored to each client’s unique situation. Our approach includes:

• Thorough Investigation: We meticulously review all evidence, interview witnesses, and consult subject experts to build a strong defense.
• Challenging Evidence: Our attorneys identify and exploit weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, such as procedural errors or unreliable testimonies.
• Expert Consultations: We work with top experts in fields like forensics, finance, and healthcare to support our defense strategies.
• Aggressive Representation: Our team is prepared to aggressively defend our clients in court, ensuring their rights are protected at every stage of the legal process.

Why Choose Cheronis & Parente LLC?

• Experienced Attorneys: Our Covid fraud lawyers have extensive experience in handling federal and state criminal cases.
• Proven Track Record: We have successfully defended clients against complex fraud charges, achieving favorable outcomes.
• Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize our clients’ needs, working closely with them to develop effective defense strategies.
• Comprehensive Defense: We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice for our clients, employing a holistic approach to each case.

Contact Our COVID-19 Fraud Defense Lawyers

If you are under investigation or facing charges for COVID-19 fraud, seek experienced legal representation immediately. At Cheronis & Parente LLC, we are committed to providing robust defense strategies to protect your rights and your future. Reach out to us today. Schedule a consultation or call 312-663-4644 and learn how our Covid fraud lawyers can help you defend against these serious allegations.