Month: March 2025

CHARLESTON, S.C. — Three brothers have been sentenced to federal prison after pleading guilty to wire fraud conspiracy and wire fraud. Two brothers, William Chan, 40, and Siu Chan, 32, both of Georgia, pleaded guilty to a wire fraud conspiracy. The third brother, Ka Ho Chan, 33, who also resides in Georgia, pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud. The brothers, along with other family members, operate a string of restaurants in the Charleston area.

Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that beginning in March 2020, the Chan brothers applied for Paycheck Protect Program (PPP) and Emergency Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) funds using false representations and fraudulent documentation. 

The evidence presented for William and Siu Chan revealed that at least 22 PPP and EIDL loans were applied for and received totaling more than $2.5 million. The investigation further revealed that a handful of the loans applied for by William and Siu were legitimate applications but the funds we not used for legitimate business purposes once funded. For example, the Government uncovered evidence that the brothers used PPP and EIDL loan funds to make personal car purchases and pay personal credit card expenses.

Ka Ha Chan pleaded to a separate information charging him with wire fraud for an EIDL loan and grant he received. Moreover, in Ka Ha Chan’s plea agreement, he agreed to a restitution figure between $300,000 to $350,000 based on his receipt of fraudulent loan proceeds applied for by his brothers during their conspiracy. The evidence revealed that all the funds received by Ka Ho, though his own wire fraud scheme, and the funds he received from his brothers were not used for legitimate business purposes and were used for personal expenses, such as vehicle purchases and personal credit cards.

“These defendants exploited a program intended to help struggling businesses during a critical time. Their greed led them to defraud the government and taxpayers, diverting millions of dollars intended for legitimate economic relief,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Brook B. Andrews for the District of South Carolina. “This sentencing sends a clear message: those who attempt to profit from pandemic aid through fraud will be held accountable.”

“We will not tolerate those who exploit programs designed to support small businesses, and these defendants are now facing the consequences for their actions,” said Steve Jensen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Columbia field office.  “The FBI remains committed to identifying, investigating, and holding accountable those who attempt undermine our financial institutions for personal gain.”

United States District Richard M. Gergel sentenced William Chan to 24 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. Siu Chan was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. Ka Ho Chan was sentenced to 12 months and one day imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. 

There is no parole in the federal system. The total amount of fraudulent loans and misuse of EIDL and PPP loan funds presented to the court during sentencing exceeded $2.8 million. In advance of sentencing, efforts had been made by the brothers to pay restitution. As a result, the outstanding restitution owed in the amount of $1,268,386.50 was ordered. 

On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office and Small Business Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Bower is prosecuting the case.

Source: United States Attorney’s Office – District of South Carolina

By Mark A Leon

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city where history lives and breathes through its architecture, culture, and local businesses. Here are some unique businesses that reflect Charleston’s storied past:

1. Charleston City Market (188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401)

• About: Established in the 1790s, the Charleston City Market is one of the oldest public markets in the U.S. It served as a hub for farmers and plantations to sell goods and remains a vibrant marketplace today.

• Why It Reflects History: The market spans four city blocks and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Vendors sell handmade sweetgrass baskets, a craft rooted in African traditions brought to Charleston by enslaved people.

2. Croghan’s Jewel Box (Formally 308 King St, Charleston, SC 29401 – Now 155 King Street)

• About: Founded in 1907, Croghan’s Jewel Box is Charleston’s oldest family-owned jewelry store. Located on King Street, it offers antique and estate jewelry alongside modern pieces.

• Why It Reflects History: Its collection includes heirloom-quality items that echo Charleston’s elegant past. The store itself is housed in a historic building, adding to its charm.

3. C.T. Lowndes & Company (Multiple Locations)

Celebrating 175 Years in the Lowcountry

• About: Established in 1850, this insurance agency has been serving Charleston for 175 years.

• Why It Reflects History: As one of the oldest businesses in the city, it has witnessed Charleston’s transformation through wars, natural disasters, and economic changes while maintaining its commitment to the community.

4. Preservation Society of Charleston Shop (147 King St, Charleston, SC 29401)

Founded in 1920: Celebrating 105 Years in Charleston, South Carolina

• About: This shop supports the Preservation Society of Charleston and offers locally crafted items such as books, art, and gifts.

• Why It Reflects History: The Preservation Society is dedicated to protecting Charleston’s historic architecture and culture, making this shop a perfect representation of the city’s commitment to preservation.

5. Jantzen Lock and Safe Co. (276 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401)

• About: Founded in 1864, this locksmith business has been operating for over 150 years.

• Why It Reflects History: Its longevity and dedication to craftsmanship showcase the enduring nature of Charleston’s small businesses and their role in supporting the community through generations.

These businesses not only offer unique products and services but also serve as living reminders of Charleston’s rich history and cultural legacy.

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Sweet and Savory: North Charleston, South Carolina recently added two new businesses to meet your appetite, Cakette Bakeshop (4546 Durant Ave North Charleston) and Palomar Fish Tacos (5117 Dorchester Rd Unit G, North Charleston, SC)

Let’s learn a little bit more about these two new businesses furthering the growth of North Charleston.

Cakette Bakeshop (4546 Durant Avenue) – This bakery dreamed up by Courtney Colangelo who collaborates with renowned bakers such as Cheryl Day is a quick-service to-go business with most of its interior dedicated to the baking kitchen. Guests can order from an indoor to-go counter and there is outdoor seating along with a simple menu of daily pastries including Colangelo’s vegan salted caramel apple galettes and peach pecan scones. The shop opened in December, 2024.

Palomar Fish Tacos (5117 Dorchester Rd Unit G) – A fresh wave of flavor brings the coast to your plate. Discover the perfect fusion of sun-kissed ingredients and authentic Baja California cuisine. Palomar Fish Tacos has a menu bursting with mount watering Baja-style Mexican dishes and is the perfect place to savor the flavors of the West Coast. Stay connected with Palomar on Instagram.

Source: Explore Charleston

Photo Credit: Cakette Bakeshop and Palomar Fish Tacos

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Automotive continues to be dominant industry for the state’s exports

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster, the South Carolina Department of Commerce (S.C. Commerce) and South Carolina Ports (SC Ports) today announced that the state’s 2024 export sales totaled $38 billion, the highest volume since 2019, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.

The automotive industry led South Carolina’s exported goods, with sales more than double that of the next largest industry type (aircraft and aerospace components). The state is the nation’s top exporter of both completed passenger vehicles and tires, and is also number two in the export of ball/roller bearings.

South Carolina’s top five exported commodities in 2024, by percentage share, were:

1. Completed passenger vehicles
2. Aircraft and parts
3. Machinery and parts (turbojets, turbopropellers, gas turbines, ball and roller bearings, appliances for boilers and pumps)
4. Plastics
5. Rubber (tires)

Notable 2024 trade statistics include:

• 2024 export sales totaled $38 billion, the highest volume since 2019. This sales figure represents a 2% increase year-over-year and is in line with overall U.S. exports which also saw 2% growth.
• In 2024, South Carolina was the top U.S. state in export sales of completed passenger vehicles, with $10.9 billion representing 18.4% of total U.S market share.
• For the 10th consecutive year, South Carolina was the national leader in the export of tires, with sales reaching $1.8 billion, representing 36.5% of the total U.S. market share.
• South Carolina exports reached 197 countries and territories in 2024.
• South Carolina is also number two in the country in exports of ball/roller bearings with 11% of U.S. market share.
• Germany solidified its position as the number one export market for South Carolina-made products and services, accounting for nearly $5 billion ($4.98 billion) and representing a 6% increase year-over-year, followed by Canada and Mexico.
• Aircraft exports from South Carolina to South Korea and the United Kingdom registered a big increase, propelling the two countries to the top six export partners.

“South Carolina’s business community and workforce continue to produce top-quality products, and the world has taken notice,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “As the national leader in export sales of passenger vehicles and tires, we are further strengthening our reputation as one of the best states in the country to do business, which will help attract even more capital investment and opportunities for our people.”

“Our state remains committed to expanding our global reach and moving South Carolina-made products across the world, and last year’s impressive export sales total reflects this,” said Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III. “Supporting international trade is a vital part of our dedication to the success of our companies from launch to legacy, and we are pleased to see these efforts paying off for the businesses that call South Carolina home.”

“South Carolina’s advanced manufacturers, automakers, tire producers, agricultural shippers and other businesses depend on South Carolina Ports to efficiently move their goods to global markets,” said SC Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin. “SC Ports provides reliable, highly productive port service to ensure S.C.-based businesses can successfully run operations and grow their businesses. We are proud to support our state’s thriving economy.”

South Carolina companies looking to expand their global markets can explore S.C. Commerce’s Export Incentives or contact the international trade team.

Source: South Carolina Office of the Governor