Former Florida state lawmaker Joe Harding, known for sponsoring a controversial law called "Don't Say Gay," has been sentenced to four months in federal prison for Covid-19 relief fraud. Harding pleaded guilty to charges of wire fraud, money laundering, and providing false statements after illegally obtaining over $150,000 in relief loans for two dormant companies. He will also serve a two-year supervised release period. Harding's lawyer claims the loans were repaid before charges were filed, and that his client cooperated in a separate pandemic relief fraud investigation involving his brother-in-law.
Former Florida lawmaker Joseph Harding, who sponsored the controversial "Don't Say Gay" law, has pleaded guilty to committing $150,000 in COVID-19 relief fraud. Harding made false statements to the Small Business Administration while applying for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan for one of his dormant business entities. After obtaining the funds, he conducted three monetary transactions involving more than $10,000 in fraudulently obtained funds. Harding faces up to 35 years in prison and resigned from the Florida House in December after his indictment.
Former Florida lawmaker Joseph Harding, who sponsored the controversial "Don't Say Gay" law, has pleaded guilty to committing $150,000 in COVID-19 relief fraud. Harding made false statements to the Small Business Administration while applying for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan for one of his dormant business entities. He faces up to 35 years in prison and resigned from the Florida House in December after his indictment was announced.
Former Florida Republican state Rep. Joseph Harding pleaded guilty to wire fraud, money laundering, and making false statements in connection with Covid-19 relief fraud. Harding acquired over $150,000 in Small Business Administration loans by lying on loan applications. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 25 and could face up to 20 years in prison for wire fraud, 10 years for money laundering, and five years for making false statements.
Former Florida lawmaker Joseph Harding, who sponsored the controversial "Don't Say Gay" law, pleaded guilty to committing $150,000 in COVID-19 relief fraud. Harding made false statements to the Small Business Administration while applying for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan for one of his dormant business entities. He faces up to 35 years in prison at a hearing scheduled for July 25.
