MARKHAM, Ill. (CBS) — On Tuesday night during the CBS 2 News at 10, we revealed that eight out of ten businesses in south suburban Markham that received federal Paycheck Protection Program loans aren’t licensed – and some of them may not even exist.
An investigation has been initiated less than a day after CBS 2’s Jermont Terry uncovered these ghost businesses obtaining loans.
Late Wednesday, Markham Mayor Roger Agpawa announced that a police officer from Markham is under investigation following our report showing he obtained a PPP loan for a landscaping business, using the address of Markham City Hall as his business location.
The city aims to confirm his business status, and inspectors will soon visit the addresses of those who received taxpayer funds.
CBS 2’s findings regarding unlicensed PPP loans left members of the Markham City Council shocked during their meeting on Wednesday night.
“I was appalled when I actually saw the video,” said Markham Ald. Brenna Hampton-Houser (1st).
“I do believe there should be an investigation by the Attorney General of Illinois,” said Ald. William Barron (4th).
“I want to compliment Channel 2 for their fair reporting on this matter,” said Mayor Agpawa.
Council members recognized that action is necessary for the 1,422 unlicensed and questionable businesses that all secured taxpayer-funded loans – which we reported on.
“We need to make sure to notify them that if you are among the 1,400 – if that’s accurate – we’re coming,” Hampton-Houser stated. “We’re regulating, and we’re coming.”
Among those being questioned by the city is Officer Kenneth Muldrow. He is noted for receiving a $20,000 loan for a lawn care service while using the police station’s address as his business location.
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