Charles Lacona Jr. Sentenced for Defrauding PPP Program

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO – Charles Lacona Jr., 67, of Colorado Springs, was sentenced to two years in federal prison for defrauding the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and laundering the funds. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announced today that Lacona was also ordered to pay $549,274.14 in restitution for his fraudulent actions.

“Theft of taxpayer dollars will not be tolerated,” said Acting U.S. Attorney J. Bishop Grewell. “This sentence sends a message that people who defrauded the United States Government will be held accountable for their actions.”

According to court documents, between April 2020 and April 2021, Lacona fraudulently obtained $513,732.50 in PPP loans. Lacona inflated payroll costs, gross receipts, and submitted false documents, including tax filings and payroll reports, to secure the funds.

While also attempting to apply for additional government assistance through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, Lacona used some of the stolen funds to purchase a Cadillac CT6 for $67,704.13.

The investigation was led by IRS Criminal Investigation, which is dedicated to holding those accountable who exploited COVID-19 relief programs meant to help hardworking Americans.

“Investigating those who defrauded programs meant for hardworking Americans will remain a top priority for our agency,” said Amanda Prestegard, special agent in charge of the Denver Field Office.

This case serves as a reminder of the strict consequences for individuals who attempt to take advantage of government relief programs during times of national crisis.

Those with information about COVID-19 fraud can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721.

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