Former New York Jets wide receiver Josh Bellamy has been charged in a $24 million COVID-19 relief loan scheme.
Josh Bellamy has been charged for his alleged role in a $24 million COVID-19 relief loan scheme. The former New York Jets wide receiver has been accused of receiving illegal loans intended for COVID-19 relief.
The news comes just two days after the organization released the eight-year NFL vet.
Bellamy, 31, dressed in just seven games for the Jets a year ago. Signed to a two-year, $5 million contract by Mike Maccagnan prior to the 2019 season, the former Chicago Bears special teams standout was expected to help Brant Boyer‘s unit.
Unfortunately, injuries derailed his time in New Jersey. He was placed on the Reserve/PUP list (shoulder) in May, which ended his season.
In a nutshell, Bellamy’s been accused of being a part of a group that accepted more than $24 million in PPP loans (personal paycheck protection) under the guise of COVID-19 relief, per his business, Drip Entertainment, LLC. All of this is according to the U.S. Justice Department.
NFL Player Charged for Role in $24 Million COVID-Relief Fraud Scheme https://t.co/ppnf4OTrPh
— U.S. Department of Justice (@TheJusticeDept) September 10, 2020
Bellamy reportedly spent more than $62,000 in loan money at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, FL. Officials also claim Bellamy spent $95,000 on custom jewelry, $5,381 at Gucci and $2,014 at Dior.
Bellamy reportedly not only received PPP loans based on falshoods for his own business but also recruited others to ask for loans.
The wideout got his start in the NFL in Kansas City as an undrafted free agent following the 2012 NFL Draft. After a single season in Washington, he spent five seasons in Chicago prior to signing with the Jets.
