Independent U.S. agency backing entrepreneurs via loans, contracts, and counseling
Carmine Agnello has begun a 15-month prison term after a federal judge rejected a request to delay surrender for a kidney transplant for his mother, Victoria Gotti. Prosecutors say the transplant is not imminent as medical issues continue, and Agnello will report to the federal prison by the deadline.
Lawrence Mayor Brian DePena has been charged with wire fraud and money laundering after allegedly obtaining a $1.5 million COVID-19 loan for his tire business and diverting funds to cover mortgages and his campaign. He appeared in federal court and was released under conditions; prosecutors say the fraud raised concerns about public trust.
A Turkish-born baker in San Francisco has poured his life savings into BaklavaStory, only to confront mounting financial pressures. He has invested about $300,000 to launch the business and now faces sustainability questions as costs rise and demand remains uncertain.
Borrowers face mounting debt as SAVE exits approach, with millions still in the program and payments resuming. Debt forgiveness debates continue amid rising balances and stalled loan forgiveness progress.