Visalia, September 6, 2025
News Summary
Joey Wayne Mackey, a 45-year-old CEO from Visalia, faces serious fraud charges for misappropriating over $4 million in COVID-19 relief funds. Allegations describe how he inflated employee numbers and payroll expenses in applications for the Paycheck Protection Program. The investigation, led by the FBI and other agencies, revealed that funds were laundered through fabricated payments to family members. If convicted, Mackey could face up to 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine, reflecting a growing effort to combat fraud in relief programs.
Visalia – Joey Wayne Mackey, age 45 and CEO of a construction company based in Visalia, was arrested on Friday due to allegations of fraud regarding the procurement of over $4 million in COVID-19 relief funds. The U.S. Attorney, Eric Grant, announced the federal complaint, detailing serious charges against Mackey.
The alleged fraud occurred between April and June 2020 when Mackey submitted multiple false applications for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). These applications, submitted for three of his businesses—Forcum-Mackey Construction Inc., JWM Inc., and Mack Aviation LLC—reportedly contained inflated figures concerning employee numbers and payroll expenses.
As a result of these fraudulent submissions, a financial institution disbursed $4,082,550 in taxpayer-backed funds. Prosecutors contend that Mackey misappropriated these funds by laundering them through fabricated payroll payments to various family members, including his minor children. Following these transactions, he was accused of withdrawing substantial amounts of money to finance the purchase of office parks, luxury apartments, and other investments.
Authorities assert that Mackey’s acquisition of real estate and luxury items continued up until at least 2023, financed by the fraudulent loans. The investigation into Mackey’s activities involved multiple agencies, including the FBI, the FDIC Office of Inspector General, and the SBA Office of Inspector General.
If found guilty, Mackey could face severe penalties, including a prison sentence of up to 30 years and a fine reaching $1 million. Authorities are actively pursuing this case as they continue to scrutinize potential fraud related to economic relief programs instituted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Background on COVID-19 Relief Fraud
The Paycheck Protection Program was designed to provide financial relief to small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, instances of fraud have been widespread, with many individuals and companies attempting to exploit the system to obtain funds illegally. The severity of the penalties for fraudulent activities reflects the government’s commitment to combating COVID-19 relief fraud and protecting taxpayer interests.
In response to fraud cases like Mackey’s, the government has ramped up investigations into those submitting questionable loan applications, working with federal and local agencies to hold accountable those who attempt to defraud assistance programs meant for struggling businesses.
Key Details of the Case
- Defendant: Joey Wayne Mackey, 45
- Location: Visalia, California
- Amount allegedly fraudulently obtained: $4,082,550
- Businesses involved: Forcum-Mackey Construction Inc., JWM Inc., Mack Aviation LLC
- Punishment if convicted: Up to 30 years in prison, $1 million fine
FAQ
What is Joey Wayne Mackey accused of?
Mackey is accused of submitting false loan applications and inflating employee numbers and payroll costs for his companies.
What penalties could Mackey face if convicted?
He faces significant legal consequences, including a lengthy prison sentence and sizable financial penalties.
What agencies were involved in the investigation?
These federal agencies collaborated to investigate potential fraud related to the COVID-19 relief funds.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Joey Wayne Mackey |
| Age | 45 |
| Location | Visalia, California |
| Fraud Amount | $4,082,550 |
| Agencies Involved | FBI, FDIC, SBA |
| Possible Penalty | 30 Years in Prison, $1 Million Fine |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- GV Wire: Visalia Construction CEO Mackey Arrested
- Your Central Valley: Construction CEO COVID Relief Fraud
- KMPH: Visalia CEO Arrested for Allegedly Embezzling $4M
- Google Search: COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Paycheck Protection Program
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
