Florida Man with Canadian Citizenship Sentenced for COVID-19 Fraud

Sentencing in Florida Fraud Case

A Florida court has handed down a prison term to Josh Edwards, a 35-year-old Canadian citizen, for his role in a scheme that sought millions in COVID-19 relief funds from the United States government. The sentence of four years and three months follows a guilty plea to two counts of fraud.

Background of the Edwards Family

Josh Edwards and his father, Evan Edwards, a pastor, operated through Aslan International Ministry, a faith-based group where they worked as Christian missionaries in Turkey for more than two decades. The family later moved to Canada before settling near Orlando, Florida, in 2019. Court records indicate the pair faced charges related to conspiracy to commit bank fraud.

Details of the Fraudulent Loan Application

In April 2020, Josh Edwards submitted an application under the Paycheck Protection Program that overstated the ministry's payroll at nearly 500 employees and monthly expenses above two million dollars. Federal investigators later found the Orlando office shuttered and learned that the listed accountant had not worked there for years and suffered from dementia. A portion of the funds was used toward a down payment on a multi-million-dollar residence in the Four Seasons Private Residence community at Walt Disney World Resort.

Father's Case and Health Considerations

Evan Edwards had his charges dropped in March 2025 after a magistrate determined he was unfit for trial due to dementia and other cognitive issues. Josh Edwards was found fit to proceed, though his mother noted he has autism and learning difficulties. His lawyer, Andrew Searle, has stated that deportation to Canada appears certain once the sentence is served.

Context of Broader COVID-19 Relief Investigations

This matter forms part of wider United States Department of Justice efforts that by March 2021 had led to charges against 474 defendants across 56 federal districts for schemes attempting to obtain over 569 million dollars. Then-acting assistant attorney general Nicholas L. McQuaid warned at the time that those seeking to exploit the pandemic would face consequences. The Edwards case drew attention because of the family's missionary background and the scale of the attempted claim.

Implications for Canadian Citizens Abroad

With Josh Edwards expected to return to Canada after his term, the outcome highlights how Canadian citizens living overseas can encounter legal processes tied to foreign relief programmes. The matter connects to ongoing discussions in Canada about cross-border accountability and the use of public funds during health emergencies.

By Alex Thompson, Staff Writer