Kansas Woman Indicted for Wire Fraud
A federal grand jury charged a Wichita woman for allegedly submitting false information to obtain PPP loans.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Financial Crime
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Christina Marie DeLeon faces two counts of wire fraud related to the submission of false applications for Small Business Administration loan assistance. Prosecutors allege that DeLeon falsified business payroll, gross sales, and employee figures to secure emergency funds.
Why it matters
The case highlights ongoing federal enforcement efforts to recover funds from fraudulent claims made against COVID-19 pandemic-era relief programs. These investigations target individuals accused of exploiting taxpayer-funded financial assistance.
A federal grand jury in Kansas City has officially indicted 42-year-old Christina Marie DeLeon on two counts of wire fraud. The legal process is currently at the indictment stage.
The players
Christina Marie DeLeon
She is a 42-year-old resident of Wichita, Kansas, who has been indicted by a federal grand jury for her alleged role in a wire fraud scheme.
Small Business Administration
This is a United States government agency that provides support to entrepreneurs and small businesses, including the administration of pandemic-era loan programs.
The details
DeLeon allegedly submitted applications containing false payroll expenses, employee counts, and gross sales figures to the Small Business Administration. These deceptive practices were reportedly used to obtain loan forgiveness and initial funding for business expenses.
Timeline
In April 2020, DeLeon allegedly submitted initial false information for loan assistance.
In January 2022, the defendant allegedly submitted further false information for loan forgiveness.
Legal Context
This indictment follows a pattern of federal oversight established to prosecute individuals who exploited the Paycheck Protection Program created by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Similar cases have been prosecuted across the country as federal agencies continue to audit pandemic relief distributions.
This investigation serves as a reminder that federal authorities are continuing to prioritize the review of pandemic-era financial records. Local business owners should ensure that all past applications for government assistance remain fully documented and accurate.
The takeaway
Authorities remain actively focused on identifying and charging those who misled the government regarding their business operations during the pandemic. Residents who may have outstanding questions regarding their own historical loan documents should consult with a qualified legal professional.
Further reading
For more information on regional enforcement, visit Kansas City Financial Crime.
Live Poll
Do you trust that government emergency aid programs are sufficiently protected against business fraud?
