In a stark reminder of the vigilance required in managing federal relief programs, Marcus Eichelberger, a former pastor from Jacksonville, Florida, faces serious legal consequences for alleged wire fraud tied to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The case highlights ongoing challenges for small business owners navigating relief programs designed to support them amid financial uncertainty. Eichelberger was indicted on four counts of wire fraud, which carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison for each count. The indictment alleges that between March 2021 and February 2022, he and an associate submitted false applications for PPP loans. They purportedly claimed the funds would be used to maintain payroll and operational expenses for an unqualified business. Instead, the funds were allegedly diverted for personal use. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe commented on the case, emphasizing the government’s commitment to safeguarding taxpayer-funded programs. “The U.S.…