April 2nd 2025.
A former football player from Central Michigan University is facing a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison for his involvement in a fraudulent scheme to obtain money from a COVID-19 relief fund. The individual, Pacino Horne, who was previously known for his athletic career, has recently made a name for himself in the music industry as a rapper. However, his post-sports success has been overshadowed by his recent legal troubles.
According to reports from The Detroit Lions, Horne is set to be sentenced on April 2nd, six months after pleading guilty to wire fraud. Prosecutors have stated that he unlawfully obtained an economic injury disaster loan and used the funds to open a Philly cheesesteak restaurant. In total, he accepted nearly $150,000 in COVID-19 relief funds. The case will be heard by U.S. District Judge Matthew Leitman, who will determine the 41-year-old's fate.
Aside from the fraud charges, Horne has also been accused of running a drug-trafficking organization. However, he has not been charged with any federal drug offenses. Despite this, investigators have seized jewelry, money, and drugs in connection to the allegations. In a sentencing memorandum, Assistant U.S. Attorney Ranya Elzein described criminal activity as Horne's "livelihood," citing evidence of drugs and drug-related items found in residences associated with him. Elzein argues that despite Horne's claims of legitimate employment, his lack of income and expenses point to a different story.
Prosecutors have requested that Horne serve a sentence of up to 14 months in prison, with consideration given to the drug trafficking allegations. On the other hand, Horne's attorney, James King, has urged the judge to disregard the accusations, claiming a lack of evidence. King stated that the government's attempts to connect Horne to any illegal activities were baseless and an attempt at unjust punishment.
Horne's legal troubles stem from his submission of a fraudulent application for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan, a federal program that provided financial assistance to small businesses affected by disasters. In February 2021, the former athlete filed for the loan, claiming losses in his company, Day1 Records. However, authorities allege that the application was filled with false information and that Horne used the money to purchase a restaurant instead of covering his supposed losses. The prosecutor stated that Horne's actions not only harmed the Small Business Association but also those individuals who genuinely needed financial aid during a national crisis.
In a moment of reflection, Horne admitted his wrongdoing and expressed remorse over his actions. He told his attorney that it was a "stupid decision" and that he was influenced by others who assured him that it was an easy and harmless act. However, he now realizes the gravity of his actions and the consequences it will have on his future. Despite his post-sports success and music career, Horne will now have to face the label of being a felon and start over once again.
Horne's life after Central Michigan University has been a mix of sports and music. After being on the practice squad for the Detroit Lions, he played for the Toronto Argonauts in the Canadian Football League. He also pursued a career as a recording artist, using the name OuttaTown. However, his recent legal troubles have overshadowed his accomplishments and brought shame to himself and his loved ones. It serves as a reminder that one impulsive decision can have a lasting impact on one's life.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
