U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref | U.S. Department of Justice
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Washington has brought attention to significant prosecutions in 2024 related to pandemic relief fraud. The cases were part of the efforts by the District’s COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force, which was established in February 2022 by U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref and White Collar Chief Dan Fruchter.
U.S. Attorney Waldref emphasized the importance of addressing fraud against pandemic relief programs, stating, "Many struggling, deserving small businesses requested money from COVID-19 relief programs. Fraudsters saw these programs as an opportunity to enrich themselves." She added that the Strike Force's work helps protect legitimate businesses that support the community and economy.
Since its inception, the Strike Force has charged 37 defendants and convicted 22 individuals on felony fraud charges related to CARES Act funding. The efforts have resulted in over $20 million ordered in restitution and millions more in forfeited assets.
Assistant United States Attorney Dan Fruchter praised the initiative: "The Eastern Washington COVID Fraud Strike Force represents the highest ideals of law enforcement and government – imagination, partnership, dedication, and service to the community."
Among those prosecuted was Tyler Keith Andrews, sentenced to over 16 years in federal prison for his involvement in a scheme to obtain more than $16 million in COVID-19 relief funds. Other notable cases include Taylor Jashaun Kendall and Michael Tyriq Allen facing charges for a $300,000 fraud scheme and Antonio Crawford receiving a 45-month sentence for obtaining over $750,000 through false applications.
Special Agent Weston King highlighted ongoing commitments: “The SBA-OIG remains steadfast in its commitment to rooting out fraud and holding wrongdoers accountable.”
The Strike Force comprises various agencies including representatives from the USAO, SBA OIG, FBI, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), Secret Service among others.
Assistant United States Attorneys Dan Fruchter, Brian M. Donovan, Tyler H.L. Tornabene, Frieda K. Zimmerman, and Jeremy J. Kelley are key members involved with these prosecutions.
It is noted that indictments are allegations only; defendants remain presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.