Free Consultations & We're Available 24/7
WE'RE A BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM.
TRUST 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE.
WE SERVICE CLIENTS NATIONWIDE.
Baton Rouge EIDL Fraud Defense – Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana takes allegations of EIDL fraud against individuals seriously, and you need an experienced and respected criminal defense attorney protecting your freedom and your rights. The prosecution monitors and investigates pandemic loan fraud violations throughout the Baton Rouge region. The FBI New Orleans Field Office coordinates with the SBA Office of Inspector General on EIDL fraud cases, and the United States District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana handles these matters through federal criminal proceedings.
An investigation and/or criminal prosecution can threaten an individual’s professional reputation and freedom. During the investigative stage, an experienced 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 criminal defense attorney early. At Spodek Law Group, we understand the complexities of defending an individual’s freedom. Whether your legal problem arises from SBA audit inquiries, false application allegations, or misuse of EIDL funds 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 law enforcement can result in additional criminal charges. An FBI agent will follow-up in writing requesting additional information if necessary and/or may request an interview.
The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation 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 criminal defense counsel, we represent individuals at all phases of the Criminal Proceedings including:
At Spodek Law Group, we also assist individuals with plea negotiations and/or cooperation agreements 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 EIDL fraud occurred or mitigate the degree of charges;
Retaining appropriate experts in the issues at hand;
Retaining a defense investigator to interview any witnesses, issue subpoenas of relevant records, secure bank records, and/or evaluate the loan application documentation;
Developing a constitutional defense if Fourth or Fifth Amendment violations are at issue. This may include documentation showing improper subpoenas and/or coerced statements; 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 desperation, or even just go through an extended period of difficulty. In these instances, an individual is not in need of 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 | Offense Level | Typical Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Under $100,000 | Base Level 7 | 6-18 months |
| $100,000-$500,000 | Level +10 | 2-4 years |
| $500,000-$1 million | Level +14 | 4-7 years |
| Over $1 million | Level +16 | 5-10 years |
| Trial Conviction | No reduction | Enhanced penalty |
EIDL fraud prosecutions by federal prosecutors have increased significantly in Baton Rouge. The Middle District of Louisiana has charged hundreds of defendants with pandemic loan fraud violations in recent years. Recent cases show the range – defendants have received outcomes from probation to significant federal prison sentences depending on circumstances and representation.
The government now pursues even smaller fraud cases aggressively. Applications that might have been overlooked during the pandemic emergency now face full criminal prosecution. The U.S. Attorney’s Office uses automated detection systems to identify fraudulent applications.
Three Baton Rouge individuals were sentenced in August 2025 for defrauding pandemic programs. Kevan Hills received the harshest sentence after trial conviction while co-defendants who pled guilty received lighter sentences. Early legal intervention prevents unnecessary prosecution.
EIDL fraud penalties depend on the loss amount and whether you plead guilty or go to trial. Under $100,000 typically results in 6-18 months federal prison with cooperation. $100,000 to $500,000 faces 2-4 years. Over $500,000 faces 4-7 years minimum. Trial convictions receive enhanced sentences under federal guidelines. Restitution is mandatory requiring full repayment of fraudulently obtained funds. Supervised release follows prison terms lasting 3-5 years. Additional penalties include inability to obtain future government loans or contracts.
SBA loan fraud carries penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 1014 including up to 30 years federal prison and $1 million fines per count. Actual sentences follow federal sentencing guidelines based on loss amounts. Most defendants face 1-5 years for amounts under $500,000. Wire fraud and money laundering charges add additional exposure. Plea agreements typically reduce sentences significantly compared to trial convictions. Mandatory restitution requires repaying all fraudulently obtained funds plus interest. Criminal records permanently affect employment and professional licenses.
Yes, federal loan fraud results in federal prison sentences in most cases. The Middle District of Louisiana actively prosecutes EIDL fraud with recent convictions resulting in multi-year sentences. Federal judges must follow sentencing guidelines that mandate incarceration for losses over $10,000. First-time offenders with minimal losses may receive probation but most defendants serve prison time. Cooperation with prosecutors can reduce sentences. Trial convictions receive significantly harsher sentences than guilty pleas. Federal prison sentences must be served at 85% minimum with no parole.
If you or your business faces EIDL fraud charges in Baton Rouge, contact the experienced federal defense attorneys at Spodek Law Group. We have over 40 years of combined experience defending individuals against pandemic loan fraud prosecutions. Our attorneys understand the complexities of EIDL fraud cases and sentencing guidelines.
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 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