Phoenix Family Pleads Guilty to $2.2 Million COVID Relief Fraud Scheme
Three members of a Phoenix family have admitted guilt in a scheme to fraudulently obtain nearly $2.2 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds. Mohammed Maio, 43, along with his parents, Souzan El-Sayed, 66, and Abukar Maio, 70, pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. The fraudulent activities spanned from May 2020 to March 2024, involving the misuse of loans from the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs. These programs were designed to support businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The family submitted false information to secure loans for non-existent businesses and used the funds for personal purchases, including real estate. Mohammed Maio also admitted to illegally obtaining a firearm, despite being a convicted felon. Sentencing is scheduled for September and October 2026. 
