Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced on May 11 that a Will County woman has been charged with allegedly obtaining a fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan of more than $20,000 while working for the Illinois Department of Corrections.
The case involves Jamilah Franklin, 48, of Joliet, who faces one count of loan fraud over $10,000—a Class 2 felony—and three counts of forgery—Class 3 felonies. If convicted, she could face up to seven years in prison for the most serious charge. Franklin’s first court appearance is scheduled for June 18.
According to Raoul’s office, Franklin was employed as a lieutenant at the Illinois Department of Corrections when she allegedly applied for and received a PPP loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration by falsely claiming business ownership. The Attorney General’s office said she received $20,516 in funds during 2021 as a result. The prosecution stems from an investigation by the Illinois State Police Division of Internal Investigation and was referred by the Office of Executive Inspector General.
“Federal assistance programs served as a lifeline for small businesses and unemployed Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is unacceptable that government employees would abuse that vital support,” Raoul said. “I will continue to collaborate with other agencies to hold public workers accountable for abusing these programs.”
Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly said: “The Illinois State Police pursues any state employee committing criminal behavior and will continue to work with Attorney General Raoul’s office to hold employees accountable and ensure justice.”
These charges are part of ongoing efforts by Raoul’s office to address alleged fraud involving pandemic-related government assistance programs. The Attorney General has prosecuted dozens in similar cases and referred others for further review.
The public is reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
The Illinois Attorney General handles thousands of consumer complaints each year; advocates for vulnerable groups including workers, immigrants, and seniors; aims to protect consumers; promotes safer communities; supports crime victims through partnerships with law enforcement; offers complaint filing services related to consumer fraud and civil rights; extends advocacy across Illinois; and addresses environmental issues—all according to the official website.
