From Jet To Jail: COVID Scam Lands Ex-Receiver Behind Bars

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Former NFL receiver Josh Bellamy is headed to prison. Bellamy was sentenced last Friday for receiving more than $1.2 million in fraudulent COVID-19 business relief loans. Fortunately, the 32-year-old Bellamy spent a season with Jets, so he should acclimate well to prison.

Bellamy was sentenced to 37 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Additionally, he'll be required to pay millions in restitution and forfeiture.






According to court reports, Bellamy used falsified documents to obtain a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan for his company, Drip Entertainment LLC. The former NFL receiver admitted to authorities that the money secured via the loan was used for personal items including jewelry and a casino stay. Bellamy also paid a yet-to-be sentenced co-conspirator $311,000 for his assistance in the fraudulent scam.

Bellamy was originally charged last fall and pleaded guilty in June.

PPP loans are forgivable small business loans given to Americans who are struggling because of the COVID-19 pandemic. They are part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act.

Bellamy began his career as an undrafted free agent with the Chiefs, then spent time with the Chargers, Washington, Bears and Jets. He recorded 78 receptions for 1,019 yards and five touchdowns over an eight year career spent mostly on special teams.

He'll have a chance to add to those numbers by catching passes from Paul Crewe as a member of the Mean Machine.

 












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Anthony is a former high school basketball intramural champion who played a leading role in creating two offspring. He spends his weekends hoping for an MTV Rock N' Jock revival. Follow him on X (@OhioAF).