Bakker May Lose Bailout Funds Over Fake COVID Cure

The Associated Press reports:

When the U.S. government extended pandemic hardship loans to thousands of religious institutions, Jim Bakker and Morningside USA, his ministry in Blue Eye, Missouri, were among the most high-profile recipients. On April 28, the pastor received approval for an amount between $650,000 and $1.7 million in Paycheck Protection Program funds.

Weeks before, Missouri filed a complaint, New York sent a cease-and-desist warning and the FDA and FTC sent warning letters alleging Bakker engaged in deceptive practices by touting purported health benefits of a silver product on The Jim Bakker Show — including a suggestion it could be used to treat or prevent COVID-19 infection.

Applicants seeking PPP loans were asked to certify they weren’t engaged in any activity that is illegal under federal, state or local law. The question is whether Bakker’s involvement in ongoing litigation and fraud allegations will rise to the level of a Small Business Administration review. It’s likely, according to attorney Daniel Grooms, a former federal prosecutor who worked in the Justice Department for 15 years.

The state of Arkansas has also sued Bakker over the fake cure claim. Penalties in that suit could be in the millions.