Bowie Business Owner Pleads Guilty to COVID-19 Relief Fraud, Faces Sentencing
Robert A. Terrell, a business owner from Bowie, Maryland, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud charges related to falsifying documents to obtain $1.35 million in COVID-19 relief funds. Terrell, who owns District Logistics LLC, admitted to submitting altered financial records to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to secure an Economic Injury Disaster Loan and subsequent modifications. Initially, his company received $125,800 in July 2020, followed by $384,100 in September 2021 after a modification request. Terrell's fraudulent activities included submitting falsified wire transfer receipts to make it appear that his company had paid off significant debts, thereby qualifying for an additional $1.35 million loan. The funds were reportedly used for day trading and gambling. Terrell's sentencing is scheduled for February 4, 2027.