Ranjan Rajbanshi, DDS, a well-known dental practitioner with practices in Bakersfield and Santa Barbara, has admitted to pleading guilty in the stealing of $500,000 in COVID-19 relief funds. The revelation comes after an extensive investigation by federal authorities into the misuse of funds meant to aid struggling businesses during the pandemic.
According to an official statement released by the Justice Department on August 21, Dr. Rajbanshi, who had received more than $850,000 in COVID-19 relief assistance from the Small Business Administration and the Department of Health and Human Services between April 2020 and February 2022, diverted a significant portion of these funds for personal use. Despite assuring the government that the money would be channeled towards business-related expenses, he reportedly utilized $500,000 for personal financial matters.
This guilty plea has far-reaching implications for Dr. Rajbanshi, as he now faces the obligation of reimbursing the entire amount to the government before his sentencing, which is scheduled for December 4. The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences individuals may face when they betray the trust of public resources intended to support businesses in times of crisis.
The dental community, as well as the local residents of Bakersfield and Santa Barbara, are left bewildered by the actions of someone previously regarded as a respected professional. This incident underscores the significance of accountability and transparency, particularly during times of national distress.
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