San Antonio Woman Sentenced to Prison for COVID-19 Relief Fraud
SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio woman was sentenced Wednesday to two years in federal prison for defrauding a COVID-19 relief program, according to court documents. Arceneaux pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud after being accused of illegally obtaining funds intended to support businesses and individuals impacted by the pandemic.
Arceneaux used the fraudulently obtained money for personal expenses,including the purchase of a new car and the installation of a swimming pool at her home. She also spent the funds on travel, large social gatherings, and a golf cart. Judge Rodriguez considered 14 character reference letters before issuing the sentence, including submissions from samantha McLure, assistant athletic director and head volleyball coach at antonian College Preparatory High School, and the Rev. Kevin Fausz, pastor at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church.
The case is part of a growing number of fraud prosecutions related to COVID-19 relief programs in the San Antonio area. At least three residents have admitted to defrauding these programs this year alone.
In February, James Michael Bergeron pleaded guilty to wire fraud after stealing almost $5.8 million from the Paycheck Protection Program and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, but died before his sentencing.Earlier in January, former FBI technician Christopher James Phillips was sentenced to three months of home confinement and five years of probation for misusing $37,500 in Paycheck Protection Program funds for personal expenses like stock trading and mortgage payments.
