Mayor Accused of Fraud Using Pandemic Funds | Dover News

Mayor Brian DePena of Lawrence, Massachusetts, faces serious federal charges—including wire fraud and money laundering—after allegedly diverting $1.5 million in pandemic relief funds meant for his tire business into personal use, including paying off high-interest mortgages and boosting his own campaign fund before the 2021 election. The FBI calls it “cashing in on a public health crisis,” and DePena’s silence after his court appearance—along with conditions like passport surrender—signals a major blow to public trust. If convicted, he could face up to 30 years in prison. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a5e1e33a3fc9677b