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Baltimore EIDL Loan Fraud Defense – Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys
The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland takes allegations of EIDL loan fraud against individuals seriously, and you need an experienced and respected federal criminal defense attorney protecting your freedom and your rights. The prosecution monitors and investigates pandemic loan fraud violations throughout Maryland. The SBA Office of Inspector General coordinates with the District of Maryland strike force on EIDL fraud cases, and the United States District Court for the District of Maryland handles these matters through the Baltimore courthouse.
An investigation and/or criminal prosecution can threaten an individual’s professional reputation and freedom. During the investigative stage, an experienced federal criminal defense attorney can assist the individual by responding to an inquiry from the prosecution. This response may be in writing and/or in person during an investigative interview. With experienced defense counsel, an effective response may result in the investigation closing without a formal filing. This is absolutely critical.
The financial and emotional costs of a formal criminal filing can be overwhelming, and can tarnish a career given that the filing and charges of the individual’s violations are publicly available because criminal charges are posted to the court system, published in the media, and accessible through online databases. Even if the allegations are later disproven, the damaging effect may linger.
It is important to retain an experienced federal criminal defense attorney early. At Spodek Law Group, we understand the complexities of defending an individual’s freedom. Whether your legal problem arises from an SBA audit, a strike force investigation, or federal fraud charges we can assist you in protecting your employment and freedom.
Our office is experienced defending individuals facing criminal prosecution(s) due to the following allegations:
Individuals are required to cooperate with federal investigations when served with a grand jury subpoena and/or when contacted by federal agents according to federal statutes. Any false statement to federal agents can result in additional criminal charges under 18 USC 1001. A special agent will follow-up in writing requesting additional information if necessary and/or may request an interview.
The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation Division may become involved in cases involving EIDL fraud offenses. Agents from these agencies and/or the U.S. Attorney’s Office have authority to investigate violations that may constitute criminal offenses under federal law.
At Spodek Law Group we evaluate the best course of action for the individual by examining your circumstances and taking a proactive, understanding approach. As experienced federal criminal defense counsel, we represent individuals at all phases of the Criminal Proceedings including:
At Spodek Law Group, we also assist individuals with cooperation agreements and/or sentencing mitigation which have been previously denied. We pride ourselves on taking a comprehensive strategy to defend the individual’s freedom. Over 40 years combined experience – really.
Depending on the individual’s circumstance, the defense strategy may include:
Requesting a meeting with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to present evidence to either refute the allegation that fraud occurred or mitigate the degree of charges;
Retaining appropriate experts in business accounting issues at hand;
Retaining a defense investigator to interview any witnesses, issue subpoenas of relevant records, secure financial documentation, and/or evaluate the application materials;
Developing a constitutional defense if Fifth Amendment violations are at issue. This may include documentation showing good faith reliance on professional advice and/or lack of criminal intent; or if necessary recommend negotiating a plea agreement to address any criminal liability under federal sentencing guidelines;
Creating a mitigation strategy for sentencing. Sometimes in our lives we suffer business failures, pandemic hardships, financial pressures, or even just go through an extended period of difficulty. In these instances, an individual is not in need of harsh criminal prosecution by the government; they need understanding andcontext;
Assisting the individual with gathering the necessary mitigation documents to support a defense package and/or prepare for trial with the prosecution.
| Loss Amount | Typical Sentence | With Trial Conviction |
|---|---|---|
| Under $100,000 | 6-18 months | 2-3 years |
| $100K – $500K | 18 months – 3 years | 3-5 years |
| $500K – $1M | 2-5 years | 5-10 years |
| Over $1M | 3-7 years | 10-30 years |
| Restitution | Full amount | Full amount + interest |
EIDL fraud prosecutions by federal prosecutors have increased dramatically in Baltimore. The District of Maryland has charged hundreds of defendants with pandemic loan fraud since 2020. Recent cases show the range – defendants have received outcomes from home confinement to decades in prison depending on circumstances and representation.
The strike force now pursues even smaller fraud amounts aggressively. Baltimore business owners who received loans in 2020 face prosecution in 2025. The District of Maryland’s dedicated COVID-19 fraud strike force is one of only five nationwide.
Recent convictions include political candidates, established businessmen, and conspiracy defendants. Early legal intervention prevents unnecessary harsh sentences and leverages cooperation opportunities.
Federal fraud penalties in Maryland depend on the specific charge and loss amount involved. Wire fraud under 18 USC 1343 carries maximum 20-30 years federal prison. Bank fraud under 18 USC 1014 for false SBA loan statements carries maximum 30 years. Maryland state fraud charges carry different penalties. For EIDL fraud prosecuted federally in District of Maryland, sentences typically range from 6 months to 7 years based on loss amount, with mandatory restitution of full fraud amount plus potential fines up to $1 million.
SBA loan fraud penalties include federal prison, restitution, and supervised release. Making false statements to SBA under 18 USC 1014 carries maximum 30 years imprisonment and $1 million fine. Typical sentences depend on loss amount: under $100,000 usually 6-18 months; $100,000-$500,000 typically 18 months to 3 years; over $1 million typically 3-7 years with guilty plea. Trial convictions result in substantially higher sentences. Mandatory restitution requires repaying full loan amount plus interest. Three to five years supervised release follows imprisonment.
Federal fraud prosecution begins with indictment by grand jury, followed by arraignment where you enter plea. Pre-trial proceedings include discovery exchange, motion practice, and potential plea negotiations. If no plea agreement reached, case proceeds to jury trial. Conviction results in sentencing hearing where judge imposes prison term, restitution, supervised release. Collateral consequences include loss of professional licenses, difficulty obtaining employment, credit damage, immigration consequences for non-citizens. Federal convictions cannot be expunged. Appeal rights exist but success rates remain low.
If you or your business faces EIDL fraud allegations or received an SBA OIG letter, contact the experienced federal criminal defense attorneys at Spodek Law Group. We have over 40 years of combined experience defending individuals against federal fraud charges. Our attorneys understand the complexities of pandemic loan prosecutions and available defenses.
For immediate assistance, call us at 212-300-5196. We maintain 24-hour availability for urgent criminal matters. Don’t wait until formal charges are filed – early intervention often produces significantly better outcomes.
Spodek Law Group
Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys
212-300-5196
Available 24/7 for Criminal Matters
Very diligent, organized associates; got my case dismissed. Hard working attorneys who can put up with your anxiousness. I was accused of robbing a gemstone dealer. Definitely A law group that lays out all possible options and best alternative routes. Recommended for sure.
- ROBIN, GUN CHARGES ROBIN
NJ CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS