The Case: When "Help" Becomes "Fraud"

A D.C. consultant, Jennifer May, pleaded guilty on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, to wire fraud for scamming the government out of $1.5 million from the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. This isn't just a simple mistake; it's a criminal offense with major consequences.

But what exactly did she do?

The EIDL program was created during the COVID-19 pandemic to offer low-interest loans to small business owners to help them with operating expenses like payroll and rent.

May, the founder and owner of a consulting firm called Next Level Partners LLC, applied for and received a $1.5 million loan. The problem? She didn't use the money for her business. Instead, she used the funds to buy cryptocurrency and pay for personal expenses and other ventures that had nothing to do with her business. 🤦‍♀️

What is Wire Fraud?

This is where the law comes in. Wire fraud is a federal crime that involves using electronic communications—like emails, phone calls, or the internet—as part of a scheme to defraud someone of money or property.

To get a conviction, prosecutors have to prove three main things:

A scheme to defraud: The person had a plan to deceive someone.

Intent to defraud: The person acted with the specific goal of tricking someone to get their money.

Use of wires: The person used some form of "wire communication" to carry out the fraud. This can be as simple as an email sent to a bank or an online application submitted for a loan.

In May's case, she likely used online applications and other electronic communications to submit false information and ultimately get the EIDL funds. That's why she was charged with wire fraud.

The Takeaway

The government is serious about prosecuting those who abused these pandemic relief programs. May pleaded guilty and has to pay back the full $1.5 million. The case is a reminder that these loans were not free money. They were intended to be a lifeline for legitimate businesses, and misusing them has severe consequences, including felony charges, fines, and prison time.

If you ever think you've been a victim of a scam or have information about fraud, you can report it to the National Center for Disaster Fraud. Stay safe and stay informed! 🛡️