Visalia, September 6, 2025
News Summary
Joey Wayne Mackey, a 45-year-old construction CEO in Visalia, was arrested for allegedly fraudulently obtaining over $4 million in COVID-19 relief funds through false PPP loan applications. The U.S. Attorney outlines the manipulation of data regarding employee numbers and payroll, enabling significant financial gain and money laundering into personal investments. Mackey could face significant penalties, including up to 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine if convicted.
Visalia
Joey Wayne Mackey, a 45-year-old CEO of a construction company in Visalia, was arrested on a federal complaint on Friday for allegedly fraudulently securing over $4 million in COVID-19 relief funds. This arrest follows an extensive investigation regarding his misuse of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans designed to support businesses during the pandemic.
U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced the criminal charges against Mackey, outlining the specifics of the case. Between April and June 2020, Mackey is accused of submitting fraudulent PPP loan applications for three of his businesses: Forcum-Mackey Construction Inc., JWM Inc., and Mack Aviation LLC. In these applications, it is alleged that Mackey inflated employee numbers and payroll expenses to increase the loan amounts he could receive.
The bank awarded Mackey $4,082,550 in taxpayer-backed funds based on the false information provided in these applications. Prosecutors state that Mackey then allegedly laundered these funds through purported payroll payments to family members, including his minor children. Following these transactions, he is reported to have withdrawn significant amounts from the loans to finance the purchase of office parks, luxury apartments, and various other investments.
The alleged fraudulent activities did not cease after the initial loan procurement. Reports indicate that Mackey continued to acquire real estate and make extravagant purchases funded by the PPP loans through at least 2023. Due to the nature of these accusations, if convicted, Mackey faces a substantial penalty that includes up to 30 years in prison and a fine reaching $1 million.
Investigation Process
The investigation into Mackey’s actions was conducted by several federal agencies, including the FBI, the FDIC Office of Inspector General, and the SBA Office of Inspector General. These agencies work to prevent and investigate fraud in government programs, particularly in light of the financial relief distributed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Context of the Paycheck Protection Program
The Paycheck Protection Program was launched as part of the federal government’s response to the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program aimed to provide loans to small businesses to help them maintain their workforce and cover payroll costs during times of financial hardship. However, cases of fraud, like that allegedly committed by Mackey, have led to increased scrutiny and enforcement efforts by federal agencies to protect taxpayer funds.
Conclusion
The arrest of Joey Wayne Mackey highlights the ongoing issues of fraud in programs established to help Americans during economic crises. As the legal process unfolds, it stands as a warning to others regarding the consequences of exploiting financial relief measures.
FAQ
Who is Joey Wayne Mackey?
Joey Wayne Mackey is the CEO of a construction company based in Visalia and has been arrested for allegedly fraudulently obtaining over $4 million in COVID-19 relief funds.
What are the charges against him?
Mackey is accused of submitting false Paycheck Protection Program loan applications that inflated employee numbers and payroll costs, which led to the fraudulent acquisition of taxpayer funds.
What is the potential penalty Mackey faces if convicted?
If convicted, Mackey could face up to 30 years in prison and a fine of $1 million.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accused Individual | Joey Wayne Mackey |
| Age | 45 |
| Company | Forcum-Mackey Construction Inc., JWM Inc., Mack Aviation LLC |
| Amount Fraudulently Obtained | $4,082,550 |
| Alleged Misconduct | Fraudulent PPP loan applications |
| Potential Penalty | Up to 30 years in prison and $1 million fine |
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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 PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa 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 the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
