Jaswinder Bhangoo, an NRI from Bakersfield, stands accused of several charges, including embezzlement from the COVID-19 relief fund.
The USA is witnessing a rise in significant instances of fraudulent activities, which is disheartening. Not too long ago, an NRI and their associates were apprehended in New Jersey for their involvement in a tech fraud scheme amounting to over 100 Crore.
Between May 2020 and November 2021, Bhangoo dishonestly sought over $250,000 in COVID-19 relief loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration. He falsely claimed to own multiple businesses with employees and revenue, concealing a prior felony conviction. As a result, he received around $163,750 in federal funds through deceptive means.
With these serious charges, Jaswinder is potentially facing a maximum prison sentence of ten years and a fine of $250,000. However, the final sentence will be determined by the court by February 20th, 2024, taking into account statutory factors and Federal Sentencing Guidelines that consider various variables.
This fraud detection initiative is part of a collaborative operation in California, aimed at combating COVID-19-related fraud. It’s one of five teams established by the U.S. Department of Justice to address such issues.
The California Strike Force combines law enforcement and legal resources in California’s Eastern and Central Districts to combat major pandemic relief fraud carried out by criminal groups and transnational entities.
