Bucyrus Man Pleads Guilty to Pandemic Loan Fraud
Jeffrey Skinner faces sentencing in February 2027 for a scheme that defrauded over $890,000 in pandemic funds.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Financial Crime
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Jeffrey Skinner of Bucyrus, Ohio, pleaded guilty to five counts of wire fraud and one count of engaging in monetary transactions in criminally derived property. He admitted to fraudulently receiving over $890,000 in pandemic stimulus funds between 2020 and 2024.
Why it matters
The case highlights the misuse of government pandemic relief programs intended to support businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Skinner utilized his role as a church treasurer to divert funds toward unauthorized payments and personal expenses.
Skinner faces a maximum of 20 years in prison per wire fraud count and up to 10 years for the monetary transaction offense. His sentencing is scheduled for February 24, 2027, in federal court in Cleveland.
The players
Jeffrey Skinner
He is a Bucyrus, Ohio, resident and former church treasurer who pleaded guilty to defrauding pandemic stimulus programs.
Small Business Administration
This is a United States government agency that provides support to entrepreneurs and small businesses through loans and disaster assistance.
The details
Skinner made false representations on Small Business Administration loan applications to secure PPP and EIDL funding. He subsequently used the proceeds to pay personal credit cards and invest in stocks and cryptocurrency.
Timeline
The fraud scheme began in March 2020.
The scheme concluded in April 2024.
The guilty plea was entered on October 30, 2026.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 24, 2027.
Legal Context
This case follows a pattern set by federal enforcement efforts targeting the misuse of funds distributed under the CARES Act. It reflects ongoing efforts by the Department of Justice to prosecute individuals who exploited pandemic-era financial relief programs.
The investigation highlights ongoing federal scrutiny regarding pandemic relief fraud in Ohio. Residents are reminded to report suspected instances of financial misconduct to federal authorities.
The takeaway
This case serves as a reminder that federal authorities continue to investigate and prosecute pandemic-related financial fraud long after the programs ended. Individuals should maintain strict compliance and documentation when interacting with government loan programs.
What happens next
Sentencing for Jeffrey Skinner is set to take place on February 24, 2027.
Further reading
For more information on legal actions in the area, visit the Cleveland financial-crime section.
More information
To report suspected criminal activity, please use the justice department fraud reporting portal.
Live Poll
Do you trust the federal government to effectively identify and prosecute pandemic relief fraud?
