Two Dominican politicians arrested in US for pandemic aid fraud

Two Dominican politicians have been arrested in the United States following allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 pandemic relief funds. The FBI claims the individuals misappropriated economic aid intended for small businesses.

Brian de Peña, the Mayor of Lawrence, is accused of obtaining approximately $1.65 million in loans. According to authorities, his initial $150,000 loan in 2020 was increased to $500,000 in 2021, before a second modification raised the total to roughly $1.65 million.

Francisco Paulino, a Massachusetts state representative, is accused of using approximately $700,000 in relief funds for personal expenses. Allegations suggest the funds were used for real estate purchases, loan payments, and transfers to his campaign account. Authorities also claim Paulino lent portions of the public funds at high interest rates that he himself paid.