Former South Florida Law Enforcement Officer Sentenced To Four Months In Prison For Pandemic-Related Loan Fraud
On August 28th, 2024, the Miami Herald a former law enforcement deputy from Broward County will serve four months in prison after being convicted for pandemic-related loan fraud. Alexandra Acosta—a ten-year veteran of the Broward Sheriff’s Office—was convicted of defrauding the federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) out of more than $20,000. Here, our Orlando white collar criminal defense lawyer explains the allegations, the sentence, and the charges.
BSO Deputy Defrauded PPP Out of More than $20,000 Using Real Estate Company
Alexandra Acosta—a former Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) deputy and member of the local SWAT team—was sentenced to four months in prison for her role in defrauding the federal government out COVID-19 pandemic relief funds. She took the case to trial. After a multi-day trial, a federal jury in Miami found Deputy Acosta guilty of several charges, including wire fraud. She was accused of falsifying documents to secure a $20,180 loan from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). These funds were reportedly used on her personal expenses instead of the payroll costs.
Despite her attorney’s plea citing her prior service and contributions to law enforcement, the court ruled in favor of a prison term. In sentencing her to serve four months in prison, the judge highlighted the breach of public trust. Notably, Deputy Acosta’s case is part of a broader scandal within the Broward Sheriff’s Office. The Miami Herald has confirmed that 17 law enforcement officers within the BSO are facing pandemic-related fraud charges.
The Charges: Conspiring to Defraud Federal Government and Wire Fraud
As with most other pandemic fraud cases, federal prosecutors brought wire fraud charges against the defendant. Wire fraud is one of the most common criminal charges for white collar offenses. The defendant in this case was also charged with conspiring to defraud the federal government. Here is an overview of the two white collar criminal charges:
- Wire Fraud: Wire fraud involves the use of electronic communications to execute a scheme to defraud or obtain money under false pretenses. Facing a wire fraud charge? Contact an experienced Orlando, FL white collar defense lawyer for immediate help.
- Conspiring to Defraud the Federal Government: Conspiring to defraud the federal government refers to an agreement between two or more persons to deceive a government agency with the intent to obstruct its lawful functions.
White collar criminal offense cases are complicated. Any defendant facing white collar criminal allegations—including a fraud-related charge—requires a proactive approach. A top-tier Orlando white collar defense lawyer can review your case and take action to protect your legal rights.
Speak to Our Orlando, FL White Collar Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
At The Baez Law Firm, our Orlando white collar criminal defense attorney is a skilled, experienced, and justice-focused advocate for clients. If you have any questions about a criminal charge, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a completely confidential initial consultation. From our Orlando office, we defend white collar criminal charges throughout Central Florida.
Source:
miamiherald.com/news/local/crime/article291553955.html
