MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A woman from Olive Branch, has been sentenced to federal prison after defrauding pandemic relief programs of more than $5 million.
Lisa Evans, age 43 of Olive Branch, was sentenced on Sept. 11 in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee after being convicted of wire fraud and related charges. U.S. District Judge Thomas L. Parker handed down the sentence, which also included restitution.
Prosecutors said Evans submitted false applications to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and provided fake federal tax documents. Through the scheme, she obtained more than $5,126,000 in COVID-19 relief funds meant to help small businesses during the pandemic.
According to federal officials, Evans spent the money on personal expenses instead of legitimate business needs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office said her actions deprived struggling businesses of much-needed funds during a critical economic period.
Authorities emphasized that fraud against emergency relief programs will continue to be prosecuted aggressively. Evans’ sentencing comes as part of a nationwide effort to hold accountable those who exploited the federal government’s COVID-19 aid programs.
Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates and high school football play-by-play on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.
