Twelve Charged in New Jersey and Pennsylvania COVID Program Fraud Case

Twelve individuals were charged between New Jersey and Pennsylvania for allegedly stealing more than $11 million from a federal COVID-era business relief program, according to the New Jersey District Attorney’s Office. Officials stated that the charges were filed after investigators uncovered a scheme involving stolen business documents, forged transactions, and fraudulent bank accounts.

Alleged Scheme Targeted Employee Retention Credit Checks

Authorities reported that the suspects targeted checks issued through the Treasury Department’s Employee Retention Credit, a program designed to help businesses retain workers during the COVID pandemic. The group allegedly used stolen business documents to obtain checks, which they later deposited into fraudulent bank accounts opened in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Investigators stated that the suspects stole 84 Treasury checks and 27 commercial checks. Officials calculated the total loss at more than $11 million, divided among the individuals involved in the operation.

Crimes Spanned Two Years, Officials Say

According to the New Jersey District Attorney’s Office, the crimes occurred between March 2023 and March 2025. During that period, the accused individuals allegedly worked together to execute the bank fraud scheme.

Federal officials confirmed that each of the twelve suspects has been charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud. The group includes residents from multiple cities in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Maximum Penalties if Convicted

Authorities stated that each defendant could face up to 30 years in prison. They may also receive fines of up to $1 million if convicted on the conspiracy charge.

Officials have not released additional procedural details regarding future court appearances or trial dates. The investigation remains active under federal oversight.