Maryland Officials Indicted in $479,000 COVID-19 Contract Fraud Scheme

A former Maryland state official and a contractor were indicted this week. They are accused of a bribery and procurement fraud scheme. The scheme involved COVID-19 cleaning contracts worth over $479,000.

Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown announced the charges. The alleged crimes occurred during the pandemic. They exploited emergency procurement procedures.

Details of the Alleged Fraudulent Scheme

The indictments name Ronald Van Price and Walter O’Riley Poindexter. Price was the Acting Director of the Office of General Services. Poindexter is the owner of a company called P-Dex.

According to the Attorney General’s office, the scheme began in early 2020. Price allegedly manipulated the contracting process. He steered cleaning contracts for Maryland Department of Labor facilities to Poindexter’s company. He also directed contracts to another contractor, Mark Sykes.

Broader Impact and Legal Consequences

The scheme represents a significant breach of public trust. It diverted critical funds during a health crisis. Attorney General Brown emphasized his office’s commitment to accountability.

A co-conspirator has already pleaded guilty. Mark Sykes admitted to bribery charges in a related case. This new development shows the investigation is continuing.

This case highlights ongoing efforts to uncover pandemic-related fraud. The Maryland COVID-19 contract fraud case serves as a stark reminder. Public officials must be held to the highest standard of integrity.

Thought you’d like to know-

Who was indicted in this case?

Ronald Van Price, a former state official, and Walter O’Riley Poindexter, a business owner, were indicted. They face charges including bribery and procurement fraud. Price was also charged with perjury.

How much money was involved in the fraud?

The illegally awarded contracts totaled over $479,000. These were for COVID-19 cleaning services. The bribes paid to the official were at least $88,000.

What was the role of the third individual, Mark Sykes?

Mark Sykes was a co-conspirator who pleaded guilty to bribery. His company, Building Enterprises LLC, also received contracts. His guilty plea preceded these new indictments.

What happens next for the indicted individuals?

The cases have been filed in Baltimore County Circuit Court. An arraignment date has not yet been scheduled. They will proceed through the state’s judicial system.

Why is this case significant for Maryland residents?

It involves the alleged misuse of taxpayer money during an emergency. It undermines trust in government institutions. The Attorney General stated it betrayed public service integrity.