The mayor of Lawrence, Massachusetts, has recently garnered attention online. This followed his lawyer’s statement to reporters that the mayor does not speak English. The comment came after questions regarding his arrest for alleged COVID-19 pandemic relief fraud.
Brian DePeña, aged 61, was taken into custody on Friday. This occurred after a probe into his alleged misappropriation of over $1.5 million from Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL). This program, managed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) under the CARES Act, aids businesses in financial distress due to the pandemic.
In a viral video clip, DePeña is seen smiling and repeatedly saying, “God bless you,” as his lawyer cuts off questions, asserting DePeña’s lack of English proficiency. The video attracted criticism on social media, with many questioning why the mayor could not respond in English.
DePeña is facing federal allegations of employing pandemic funds for his political campaign and settling personal debts. He applied for assistance through Tenares Tire Services Inc., his tire shop based in Lawrence.
“How is this real,” tweeted an influencer account named LibsofTikTok, amassing over a million views.
Additional online criticism from figures like journalist Miranda Devine questioned the appropriateness of a public official lacking English fluency. Conservative political commentator Jace Yarbrough expressed concerns regarding immigrants holding public office without assimilation.
A video shared shortly afterward depicted a car, apparently driven by DePeña, crashing into another vehicle while leaving the scene. Fox News Digital reached out to DePeña’s office for comments. Born in the Dominican Republic, DePeña became the mayor in 2021 and previously served on the Lawrence City Council. He has spoken openly about his past as an undocumented immigrant before gaining U.S. citizenship.
“Mayor DePeña was seen as a trusted leader,” commented U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley. “His arrest is a testament to our commitment to addressing public corruption.” If found guilty, he may face 30 years in prison.
Fox News Digital sought remarks from DePeña’s legal counsel, Carlos Apostle.
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