A 62-year-old San Francisco real estate investor will defend himself in federal court against charges he stole more than $400,000 from pandemic relief programs — despite a judge’s blunt warning that going it alone is “generally unwise.”
Luke Brugnara, a convicted fraudster with prior federal prison time, convinced Senior U.S. District Judge Maxine M. Chesney he’s competent to represent himself at trial. He faces nine counts of wire fraud and three counts of money laundering for allegedly submitting false loan applications in 2021 on behalf of Brugnara Corporation, his real estate investment business.
Judge Warns Against Self-Representation
“I am required to advise you, and I will, that you will do better with a trained lawyer representing you,” Judge Chesney told Brugnara during proceedings in San Francisco. “You are not as familiar with the laws as an attorney; you are not as familiar with court procedure and court evidence. I really urge you not to represent yourself.”
The judge added that while she believes the law requires her to allow Brugnara to proceed without counsel, she considers it a serious risk. “If you are committed to it and think it is worth the risk, I think the law requires me to allow you to do it,” she said.
Prosecutors Allege Pandemic Fraud Scheme
Federal prosecutors say Brugnara fraudulently obtained over $400,000 in federal assistance meant to help legitimate businesses survive COVID-19 lockdowns. The indictment, filed in May 2024, alleges he submitted false information to qualify for emergency relief programs that distributed taxpayer funds to struggling companies.
Each wire fraud count carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. The money laundering charges add additional potential prison time.
The case adds to a wave of pandemic relief fraud prosecutions as federal investigators work through applications submitted during the 2020-2021 emergency period, when normal verification procedures were relaxed to speed aid to businesses.
Brugnara’s trial date has not yet been set. He will face federal prosecutors alone, without legal counsel to cross-examine witnesses, object to evidence, or navigate the procedural complexities Judge Chesney explicitly warned would disadvantage him.
Key Points
- Luke Brugnara will represent himself against charges he stole over $400,000 from pandemic relief programs through fraudulent loan applications
- Judge Maxine Chesney repeatedly warned the 62-year-old convicted fraudster that self-representation puts him at serious disadvantage but allowed him to proceed
- He faces nine wire fraud counts and three money laundering counts, each carrying up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted
https://www.courthousenews.com/former-san-francisco-real-estate-investor-to-represent-himself-in-trial-over-accused-pandemic-era-fraud-scheme/ – August 27, 2026
