The Government's Payment Protection Program (PPP) was a forgiveable loan "...that helps businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis." It was meant to help small businesses survive during the pandemic, but it has had plenty of issues from the beginning. Some major, national companies had recieved millions with Ruth's Chris, Potbelly and Shake Shack returning the money.
One man in Miami is now accused of lying on multiple applications, attempting to get about $13.5 Million, claiming he had multiple businesses with payrolls amounting up to $4 Million each. In the end, 29 year old David T. Hines pocketed around $3.4 Million, but that money didn't go to his alleged employees. Officials say those employees either didn't exist at all, or they didn't make nearly as much as Mr. Hines claimed.
So what did David spend the money on? Along with a $318,000 Lamborghini Huracan, it's reported that some money went to dating websites, jewelry and clothes and stays at posh hotels in Miami Beach. That must have barely made a dent, because they found a balance of $3,463,162 in his bank account.
While small businesses all over the country are struggling to survive and even independent music venues having to beg for support, people like David T. Hines seem to be having a great time. Well... until they crash their sports car and get charged with bank fraud.