Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr., U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan | Department of Justice
Federal law enforcement charged and arrested West Bloomfield resident Randon “Romero” Williams on April 10 for allegedly committing wire fraud and money laundering in connection with over $5 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr., who said the charges are part of President Donald J. Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the new National Fraud Enforcement Division led by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.
The case highlights ongoing efforts to address alleged abuse of federal relief programs designed to help businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prosecutors say such schemes divert resources away from those who need them most.
According to the complaint, Williams, age 40, submitted six PPP loan applications between April 2020 and March 2021 under various business names, including "The Romero Group" and "Step Ladder Construction." Authorities allege that these companies either existed only on paper or that Williams exaggerated employee numbers, payroll expenses, and gross receipts—key factors used to determine loan eligibility and amounts. Investigators also claim he submitted falsified tax documents as supporting evidence.
Gorgon said: “These efforts are the first fruits of President Donald J. Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and come on the heels of the establishment of the new National Fraud Enforcement Division working under Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.” He added: “We will zealously prosecute any thief who steals from the hardworking American taxpayer.”
Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd of IRS Criminal Investigation Detroit Field Office joined Gorgon in announcing the charges. Wingerd said: “The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was designed to be a lifeline for struggling businesses during a global disaster event, not a free-for-all for any unscrupulous fraudster looking for easy money... Our expertise is following the money, and we will find you.”
Officials emphasized that a complaint is only a charge and not evidence of guilt; trial cannot be held on felony charges until an indictment is issued after further investigation.
The Department of Justice recently created its National Fraud Enforcement Division with a mission focused on investigating misuse of taxpayer funds as part of broader anti-fraud initiatives led by President Trump’s task force.
