Chula Vista City Council member Andrea Cardenas and her brother, Jesus Cardenas, pleaded guilty to charges of fraudulently obtaining a $176,227 Paycheck Protection Program loan for their political consulting business, Grassroots Resources. The District Attorney’s Office filed the charges against them. The siblings allegedly used the funds for personal expenses, including a $33,500 check to Andrea Cardenas’ City Council campaign account.
The charges include conspiracy, money laundering, conspiracy to defraud, two felony counts, and failure to file tax returns. As part of the plea deal, the defendants will be required to pay restitution. According to CBS 8 San Diego, “Councilwoman Andrea Cardenas and her brother Jesus deny all allegations against them. She says she’s not guilty, so she’s not resigning from her city council seat.” Following this, Andrea Cardenas decided to formally resign, effective immediately. Jesus Cardenas could face up to four years and four months in prison, while Andrea Cardenas faces up to five years and eight months if convicted. They remain out of custody until their court appearance in January.
If you or someone you know is facing serious charges like fraud, conspiracy, or money laundering, it’s crucial to have a skilled legal team on your side. At Bernal Law, we understand the complexities and high stakes involved in such cases. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support and fighting tirelessly for your rights. Don’t navigate this challenging time alone—reach out to us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you build a strong defense and pursue the best possible outcome for your case. Contact Bernal Law at (619) 736-9092 or visit our website to learn more about how we can assist you. Your future deserves nothing less than the best defense.