Son of Fresno State legend busted for COVID-19 relief fraud 

Henry Ellard Jr. took Paycheck Protection Program loans and used the money all on personal expenses, including flights and golf. He could spend the next decade behind bars.

Henry Ellard Jr., the son of former Fresno State wide receiver Henry Ellard, has pleaded guilty to fraud. 

Ellard pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday to stealing $144,000 in COVID-19 relief funding. 

Driving the news: Court records state that Ellard created Baptiste Ellard LLC in July 2020 and used the business to apply for and receive $144,000 in COVID-19 relief money from the Small Business Administration (SBA). 

  • Ellard falsely told the SBA that Baptiste Ellard LLC had 10 employees and an annual payroll over $695,000. 
  • He also said he would use the SBA loans for business expenses. 
  • In reality, Ellard’s company had no employees, no annual payroll and no real operations, making it ineligible for Paycheck Protection Program loans through the SBA. 
  • Ellard used the money for personal expenses, including restaurants, bars, airfare, hotels, clothing and golf. 

What we’re watching: Ellard will return to federal court for his sentencing on Feb. 24, 2025. 

  • He faces a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. 
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