Former Eagles Super Bowl Champion Wendell Smallwood Sentenced for COVID-19 Fraud

Former Philadelphia Eagles running back Wendell Smallwood Jr. has been sentenced to federal prison. A judge handed down an 18-month sentence for his role in pandemic relief fraud schemes. The schemes defrauded the government of over $600,000.

The sentencing occurred on September 18 in a Delaware federal court. Smallwood pleaded guilty to multiple fraud charges earlier this year. This marks a stunning fall from grace for the former Super Bowl LII champion.

Details of the Multi-Pronged Fraud Scheme

According to court documents, Smallwood orchestrated three separate fraud plans. He submitted fake applications for federal Paycheck Protection Program loans. He also applied for fraudulent Economic Injury Disaster Loans.

Furthermore, Smallwood filed false claims with the Internal Revenue Service. Prosecutors stated he used shell companies to hide the illicit activity. He also recruited others to file bogus claims and took kickbacks.

The total amount stolen was $645,000. This information was confirmed by reporting from WHYY. Federal agents raided his New Jersey home in 2023 as part of the investigation.

From NFL Glory to Federal Conviction

Smallwood’s football career peaked early. He was a key member of the Eagles’ 2017 Super Bowl-winning team. He played three seasons in Philadelphia before brief stints elsewhere.

His NFL career effectively ended in 2020. He earned approximately $3 million during his time in the league. The fraud schemes began shortly after his football prospects dimmed.

At his sentencing, Smallwood expressed remorse to the court. He stated he had let his family and community down. He accepted full responsibility for his actions.

The judge also ordered full restitution of the stolen funds. Smallwood will begin his prison term in December. He will complete his criminology degree at West Virginia University first.

The sentencing of Wendell Smallwood closes a tragic chapter, highlighting a severe fall from professional athletic achievement. His fraud sentence serves as a stark warning against exploiting national emergency programs for personal gain.

Info at your fingertips

What was Wendell Smallwood convicted of?

He pleaded guilty to conspiracy and wire fraud. His crimes involved stealing money from COVID-19 relief programs and filing false tax returns.

How much prison time did he receive?

A federal judge sentenced him to 18 months in prison. He was also ordered to repay the full $645,000 he stole.

Did Wendell Smallwood win a Super Bowl?

Yes. He was a running back for the Philadelphia Eagles during their Super Bowl LII victory in the 2017 season.

Are there other charges pending against him?

Yes. He faces separate felony weapons charges in New Jersey for illegal possession of assault-style weapons found during the raid on his home.

When will he report to prison?

Smallwood is scheduled to voluntarily surrender to authorities in December 2024. This allows him to finish his current university semester.

Sources

WHYY, Delaware News Journal, U.S. Federal Court documents.