The Department of Justice announced a significant $8.1 million settlement on July 15, 2025, following a whistleblower case that uncovered the misuse of federal pandemic relief funds. The case, spearheaded by Dr. Herbert Remidez and represented by Hoyer Law Group, PLLC, addressed violations of the False Claims Act related to the Payroll Support Program (PSP) under the CARES Act.
Allegations centered around inaccurate certifications submitted to the Treasury Department's PSP, which was designed to aid the airline industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. The complaint detailed that certain employees received compensation exceeding statutory limits, and the company continued to certify compliance despite these breaches. This settlement not only returns over $4 million in restitution to the U.S. Treasury but also underscores the critical role of whistleblowers in safeguarding taxpayer dollars.
Dave Scher, a partner at Hoyer Law Group, praised the outcome as a testament to the False Claims Act's purpose, emphasizing the importance of integrity and accountability in the use of public funds. Dr. Remidez's willingness to come forward was pivotal in recovering misused funds, demonstrating the impact individual actions can have on ensuring governmental transparency and fiscal responsibility.
