A former Florida lawmaker pleaded guilty Tuesday to wire fraud, money laundering and making false statements in connection with COVID-19 relief fraud, according to a news release from the Department of Justice. Former Republican State Rep. Joseph Harding acquired more than $150,000 in Small Business Administration loans by lying on loan applications, the department said.
Harding is scheduled to be sentenced on July 25, the release said. A wire fraud conviction carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, while money laundering and making false statements carry a maximum of 10 and five years, respectively.
Peg O’Connor, an attorney for Harding, said in a statement that her client “made the best decision available to him under the circumstances to protect his family and his future.” She added that she looks forward to providing a “fuller picture” and “insight into who Mr. Harding is as a person” at sentencing.
