West Bloomfield Residents Charged in $2.6M Pandemic Loan Fraud

Pair accused of using inactive businesses, fake bank records to obtain COVID-19 relief funds

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Two West Bloomfield, Michigan residents have been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud for allegedly obtaining $2.6 million in fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans during the COVID-19 pandemic. Peter Valente and Angela Toma are accused of using inactive businesses and falsified bank records to illegally obtain the federal relief funds.

Why it matters

The charges highlight ongoing efforts by federal authorities to investigate and prosecute fraud related to pandemic assistance programs, which were intended to provide critical aid to small businesses and nonprofits impacted by the economic fallout of COVID-19. This case underscores the government's commitment to holding accountable those who allegedly misused taxpayer funds meant for legitimate pandemic relief.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, Valente and Toma conspired to fraudulently obtain $2,609,210 from the Paycheck Protection Program by submitting loan applications for inactive businesses and providing falsified bank records. When federal agents began investigating the case, Valente claimed to be unaware of the alleged criminal activity until afterwards.

  • The criminal complaint was unsealed on March 4, 2026.
  • The alleged fraud occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Paycheck Protection Program was created by Congress to provide economic relief.

The players

Peter Valente

One of the West Bloomfield residents charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and obstruction of justice in the $2.6 million pandemic loan fraud case.

Angela Toma

One of the West Bloomfield residents charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud in the $2.6 million pandemic loan fraud case.

U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Michigan

The federal prosecutors' office that brought the charges against Valente and Toma.

Homeland Security Investigations

The federal investigative agency that worked on the case against Valente and Toma.

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What’s next

The judge will decide whether to allow Valente and Toma to be released on bail as the investigation continues.

The takeaway

This case demonstrates the government's ongoing efforts to crack down on fraud related to pandemic relief programs, which were intended to provide critical aid to struggling small businesses and nonprofits. It serves as a warning that those who allegedly misuse taxpayer funds meant for legitimate pandemic relief will be held accountable.