FBI Arrests Non-English-Speaking Mass. Mayor On Wire Fraud Charges

A bizarre story out of Massachusetts dominated the newswires overnight for its various twists, turns, and details that would defy even the most creative fiction author.

Lawrence, Mass., Mayor Brian DePeña was arrested by the FBI Friday morning at his home and charged with allegedly misusing more than $1.5 million in COVID-era small-business loans, according to federal prosecutors.

A criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Boston accuses DePeña of wire fraud and money laundering. Prosecutors allege he obtained federal pandemic relief funds intended for his tire business but diverted the money for personal and political expenses.

“Mayor DePeña was elected to be a leader for the City of Lawrence. He was looked up to and trusted by his constituents, but he betrayed that trust through his alleged corruption and lies,” U.S. Attorney Leah Foley said.

“Today’s arrest is just another example of our determination to root out fraud by anyone, even public officials and holding elected officials accountable,” she added, per NBCBoston.