Shelitha Robertson, a former assistant city attorney of Atlanta, has been sentenced to seven years in jail for her involvement in a multi-million-dollar COVID relief loan fraud scheme.

Robertson fraudulently obtained around $15 million through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and used the funds for personal luxuries, as The Blaze reports.

Shelitha Robertson’s Legal Career

Sixty-two-year-old Shelitha Robertson was previously a respected assistant city attorney in Atlanta. Robertson also engaged in sharing life advice via a podcast platform.

The podcast, called Mommy & Me, was hosted by her daughter. Robertson emphasized the value of integrity and honesty in these episodes. Despite publicly promoting these ideals, Robertson was secretly engaged in fraudulent activities.

Misuse of Relief Funds

Robertson's illegal actions involved obtaining $15 million in PPP loans during the COVID-19 pandemic. This program was designed to support struggling small businesses.

She falsely claimed the funds were necessary to support her four businesses, all of which were registered under her name. Instead of using the funds for business support, she diverted the money for personal extravagances.

Personal Luxuries and Misguided Transfers

Robertson’s illicit expenditures included a 10-carat diamond ring, a Rolls Royce, and a motorbike.

In addition to personal purchases, she transferred significant sums to her family members and co-conspirator Chandra Norton. This misappropriation of relief funds drew the attention of the authorities.

Public Image vs. Reality

Interestingly, Robertson appeared on her daughter’s podcast just weeks before her sentencing. During the podcast, she declared, “I choose integrity and whatever else it brings. I don't choose selling your soul to the devil.”

She added, “How my kids view me and respect me, means more to me than earning a quick dollar for me to be something that I'm not.” Despite these statements, Robertson continued her fraudulent activities, submitting false loan applications up until her arrest.

Federal Investigation and Prosecution

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia led the investigation into Robertson’s actions. They discovered the glaring discrepancies between her public persona and her criminal endeavors.

U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan stated, “Motivated by greed, Robertson deceptively obtained funds that were designated to provide emergency financial relief to struggling small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Buchanan emphasized that the law enforcement community would not tolerate such fraudulent behavior, especially amidst a global crisis.

Vigilant Oversight from Authorities

The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration played a crucial role in pursuing Robertson. Special Agent in Charge Mark H. Morini, Jr. expressed a stern warning against such fraudulent acts.

Morini remarked, “The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration will aggressively pursue individuals who commit fraud against the American taxpayer.” He continued by highlighting the importance of ensuring that legitimate businesses receive the PPP loans intended to help them survive the pandemic.

Community's Response and Cooperation

Authorities praised the cooperation between various federal agencies that contributed to bringing Robertson and her associates to justice.

“We want to express our gratitude to our federal partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their assistance in holding these individuals to account,” the authorities stated. This collaborative effort underscores the dedication to upholding the integrity of emergency relief programs.

Conclusion

In summary, Shelitha Robertson, once a notable Atlanta attorney, received a seven-year jail sentence for fraudulently acquiring $15 million in COVID relief loans.

Her actions starkly contrasted with the virtues she espoused publicly on her podcast, leading to her downfall. Federal agents, committed to preventing fraud against taxpayers, exposed her misuse of pandemic relief funds for personal luxuries and unwarranted transfers.

The collective efforts of various federal entities ensure that such fraudulent misuse of emergency resources will face stringent consequences.