Top prosecutors in Tampa Bay continue to uncover cases of COVID-19 relief fraud [Video]

TAMPA – A Riverview man was sentenced recently. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, Middle District of Florida says he was convicted of conspiracy and wire fraud in connection with fraudulently receiving COVID-19 relief funds.

Prosecutors say Alexander Alli, 39, defrauded the Small Business Administration of $82,500, through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office says that despite the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, cases of fraud are still being uncovered.

“It’s unfortunate that people took advantage of the situation and committed so much fraud in taking money that was designed to help small businesses that were being crushed by the pandemic,” Asst. U.S. Attorney Merrilyn Hoenemeyer said.

Prosecutors say Alli applied for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan.

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“There was both fraud in the application, fraud in how there was money used and then fraud in the cover …