Lawrence Mayor Brian DePena was arrested on Friday and charged with wire fraud and money laundering for allegedly fraudulently obtaining a $1.5 million pandemic loan intended for small businesses. According to the charges, DePena used the funds to pay off high-interest mortgages on various properties and to support his election campaign, rather than for his tire sales business, Tenares Tire Services Inc. DePena is accused of spending over $880,000 on mortgages and $90,000 on his campaign ahead of the 2021 election. The FBI's Boston Division stated that DePena's actions represented a misuse of federal funds meant to assist businesses during the pandemic. If convicted, DePena could face significant prison time and fines. He made an initial court appearance and was released under specific conditions, including surrendering his passport.
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Lawrence Mayor Charged with Fraud Over Pandemic Loan Misuse
Lawrence Mayor Brian DePena has been charged with wire fraud and money laundering for allegedly misusing a $1.5 million pandemic loan. The funds were reportedly used to pay off personal debts and support his election campaign instead of aiding his business. DePena faces potential prison time and fines if convicted.
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Tenares Tire Services Inc.
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Brian DePena
Ted Docks
Carlos Apostle
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Massachusetts mayor accused of using a pandemic loan to fund election campaign and pay his taxes
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Lawrence Mayor Charged with Fraud Over Pandemic Loan Misuse