Executive Summary
Laws and Precedent
A Florida man faces federal wire fraud charges for allegedly orchestrating a scheme to steal more than $250,000 in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funds during the COVID-19 pandemic. Clarence Gardener, 50, of Odessa, was indicted by a grand jury in Tampa, Florida, on Friday, November 14, 2025, for submitting a false and fraudulent loan application.
Allegations and Charges
According to the indictment, Gardener devised a scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration (SBA) between April and October 2020. He is accused of submitting a fraudulent application for a PPP loan, a program established under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to provide economic relief to small businesses impacted by the pandemic.
If convicted, Gardener could face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The United States is also seeking an order of forfeiture totaling $261,253.00, representing the alleged proceeds directly traceable to the offense.
Investigation and Prosecution
The case was investigated jointly by the Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Merrilyn Hoenemeyer will prosecute the case.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely a formal charge, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Key Takeaways
Clarence Gardener has been indicted on wire fraud charges for allegedly defrauding the Paycheck Protection Program of over $250,000. This case highlights ongoing federal efforts to combat fraud related to pandemic relief initiatives, with Gardener facing significant prison time and forfeiture if found guilty.
