ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) – An Ithaca man is facing up to 70 years in federal prison.

Ejembi Onah, 60, was convicted Monday in a bench trial on two counts of wire fraud and three counts of money laundering. Onah fraudulently obtained two Paycheck Program (PPP) loans totaling more than $140,000 during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the application process, Onah lied about the payroll and number of employees in his business and supported his claims with falsified tax returns. Onah used the money to pay for personal expenses, including paying back rent and leasing a luxury car.

Onah was ordered to pay restitution to two lenders and forfeit loan proceeds. He additionally faces up to $1.25 million in fines. Each count of wire fraud carries a maximum sentence of 20 years, and each count of money laundering carries a maximum of 10 years.  Onah’s sentencing is scheduled for February 15, 2024.