Los Angeles, California – On May 28, fourteen individuals were arrested in connection with a major fraud case involving COVID-19 relief and small business loans.

The suspects, including residents of San Fernando Valley and Glendale, were charged based on two federal criminal complaints.

Authorities allege the defendants fraudulently secured more than $25 million in taxpayer-funded aid.

The funds were meant to support small businesses and individuals during the pandemic.

A multiagency taskforce led by ICE Los Angeles conducted the investigation.

The arrests highlight one of the largest COVID-19 loan fraud schemes uncovered in the region.

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