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Mass. Company Accused of Stealing Millions in COVID Relief Funds
Prosecutors say On the Go Tax Services submitted fraudulent PPP loan applications.
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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On the Go Tax Services, a tax preparation business operating in Massachusetts and Florida, is facing federal charges for allegedly stealing millions of dollars in taxpayer-funded COVID-19 relief. Prosecutors state that Lorne Johnson and three co-defendants submitted fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications, recruiting borrowers, preparing false paperwork, and inflating incomes to fraudulently qualify for the loans.
Why it matters
This case is part of a concerning pattern of COVID-19 relief fund misuse, with organized schemes designed to exploit programs like the PPP. The theft of these funds ultimately burdens taxpayers, and increased scrutiny and stricter enforcement are crucial to prevent future fraud.
The details
The scheme involved recruiting borrowers, preparing false paperwork, and inflating incomes to fraudulently qualify for PPP loans. Authorities believe the group took as much as 30% of each loan obtained. The IRS suspects that many of the borrowers knowingly participated in the scam.
- On February 10, 2026, federal charges were filed against On the Go Tax Services and its co-defendants.
The players
On the Go Tax Services
A tax preparation business operating in Massachusetts and Florida that is facing federal charges for allegedly stealing millions of dollars in COVID-19 relief funds.
Lorne Johnson
One of the co-defendants charged in the alleged scheme to submit fraudulent PPP loan applications.
What’s next
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the alleged fraud scheme.
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing problem of COVID-19 relief fund misuse, with organized schemes designed to exploit programs like the Paycheck Protection Program. Increased scrutiny and stricter enforcement are crucial to prevent future fraud and protect taxpayers.
