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.
