A 74-year-old Marrero resident has been sentenced after pleading guilty to CARES Act fraud. Linda Triggs faced up to five years in prison but received three years of probation with an order to repay $64,065.00 in restitution and complete 150 hours of community service. This backdrop unfolds from charges related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act.
In April 2021, Triggs, operating under her non-profit corporation, had made false statements to secure a Paycheck Protection Program loan, which was part of federal relief efforts during the COVID-19 crisis. In a statement obtained by the U.S. Attorney's Office's website, Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that, in addition to probation, Triggs would also have to face a fine and a mandatory special assessment fee. The sentencing, handed down by United States District Judge Brandon S. Long on October 30, caps what could have been a stiffer penalty for the admitted misconduct.
The U.S. Attorney's Office press release detailed the specifics of Triggs' offense, indicating she had illegally obtained approximately $64,065.00 under the pretense of needing relief funds. The CARES Act was established to provide critical support to small businesses severely impacted by the pandemic, and Triggs' actions represented a betrayal of these objectives.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany Reed of the Violent Crimes Unit led the prosecution, a testament to the seriousness with which the government treats fraud, especially that which undermines initiatives meant to bolster the economy during national emergencies. The investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation played an instrumental role in bringing Triggs' case to a conclusion, according to the same press release.
