Maryland Man Charged with $2.5 Million Fraud

Jonathan Tarrell Smalls, a 41-year-old childcare center owner from Maryland, has been indicted on charges of felony theft, identity fraud, and public assistance fraud for allegedly stealing over $2.5 million from the state. The investigation revealed that between 2014 and 2024, Smalls concealed his ownership of multiple childcare centers, including Habakkuk Outreach Ministries, and inflated attendance records to fraudulently receive state payments. The Maryland State Department of Education had previously revoked his childcare registration, prompting him to use false identities to continue operating. In one instance, a center invoiced the state for 51 children present, but only 12 were found during a site visit. Additionally, Smalls is accused of falsifying information to receive SNAP and medical assistance benefits while living out of state. The Attorney General's office emphasized the importance of safeguarding public funds in light of these serious allegations.