Linda Triggs, a 73-year-old resident of Marrero, has pleaded guilty to making a false statement related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson on June 24, 2025.
The CARES Act was signed into law on March 27, 2020, providing emergency assistance through the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) for small business owners impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. A key component of this aid was the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
According to charging documents, Triggs submitted false statements on April 18, 2021, to an approved lender in order to secure approximately $59,065 in PPP loans for a non-profit corporation she owned.
Triggs faces potential penalties including up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. Sentencing is scheduled for September 30, 2025, before United States District Judge Brandon S. Long.
For more information regarding the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic or to report suspected fraud involving COVID-19 relief efforts, individuals can visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus or contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for their role in investigating this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany Reed from the Violent Crimes Unit is leading the prosecution.