**Former WVU Star Wendell Smallwood Pleads Guilty to Federal Fraud Charges**
Wendell Smallwood, the former West Virginia University running back who gained recognition for his impressive college football career, has pled guilty to federal fraud charges. The legal troubles surrounding Smallwood have shocked fans and the sports community alike, as the athlete once known for his speed and agility on the field faces a very different kind of battle in the courtroom.
Smallwood, who played for WVU from 2013 to 2015, was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft. He played three seasons in the NFL, most notably winning a Super Bowl with the Eagles in 2018. However, his promising football career took an unexpected turn when he became involved in a federal fraud case.
The charges stem from Smallwood’s participation in a scheme that involved fraudulent financial activity. Authorities revealed that Smallwood, along with others, engaged in a scheme to submit false claims for pandemic-related relief funds, particularly the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which was designed to assist businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The fraudulent claims were reportedly submitted with falsified information about businesses and their operations.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Smallwood admitted to using fake business documents to secure funds that were not meant for personal use. He allegedly used the funds for his own expenses, including purchasing luxury items, rather than for the intended purpose of aiding businesses struggling during the economic downturn caused by the pandemic.
Smallwood’s guilty plea carries serious legal consequences, including potential prison time and significant fines. The case has drawn attention due to Smallwood’s high-profile background as a former NFL player, leaving many shocked at the fall from grace for a once-promising athlete.
The guilty plea serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to combat fraud related to government assistance programs. Smallwood will face sentencing in the coming months, with his future uncertain both legally and in the realm of professional sports. His case highlights the risks of abusing financial assistance programs intended for those in genuine need, and serves as a cautionary tale for others who may attempt to exploit similar systems.
