Evergreen Reporter

A federal grand jury has indicted three Metro East residents for allegedly obtaining over $20,000 each in pandemic relief funds through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) under false pretenses.

In response to financial hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Small Business Administration implemented the PPP to provide forgivable loans to struggling businesses. These loans were intended to cover operational costs such as payroll, employee benefits, and facility expenses.

“Countless small business owners and employees fell on hard economic times during the COVID-19 pandemic, and PPP loans allowed many to keep their families fed and lights on,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “In one of the most prevalent and widespread fraud crimes in history, the greedy individuals who sought to steal from the federal government under false pretenses and enrich themselves with PPP funds will be held accountable under the law.”

Katherine L. Liggins, 36, of Belleville, faces one count of wire fraud and one count of making a material false statement for allegedly lying to obtain more than $20,000 in PPP funds.

Eric C. Scott, 43, also of Belleville, is charged with one count of wire fraud and one count of making a material false statement for allegedly applying for and spending more than $20,000 in PPP funds under false pretenses.

Tamika N. Wilson, 44, another Belleville resident, faces two counts each of wire fraud, making a material false statement, and submitting a material false document. She is accused of improperly acquiring more than $40,000 in PPP loans.

“These indictments send a clear message that VA employees will be held accountable if involved in fraudulent activities,” said Special Agent in Charge Gregory Billingsley with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Central Field Office. “The VA OIG thanks the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their efforts in this investigation.”

At the time of the alleged misconducts Liggins Scott Wilson full-time employees Veterans Affairs Regional Office St Louis County

An indictment is merely a formal charge against a defendant Under law defendant presumed innocent charge until proved guilty beyond reasonable doubt satisfaction jury

Wire fraud convictions punishable up 20 years imprisonment material false statement document convictions may lead up five years federal prison 

Agents Department Veteran Affairs Office Inspector General contributing investigation Assistant US Attorney Scott Verseman prosecuting case

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