Omar Smith, Dale Holness’ campaign guru, appeared before Federal Judge William Matthewman on Thursday morning to plead not guilty to charges related to fraudulently obtained Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loan fraud. On Monday, Federal prosecutors charged Smith with felony conspiracy to commit bank fraud and wire fraud to obtain a $215,500 COVID-19 relief loan. If convicted, Omar Smith could face thirty years in prison and up to $1,000,000 in fines.

Judge Matthewman stated bond was $100,000 for Smith.

As REDBROWARD first reported on Tuesday, Smith’s charging documents included a waiver of indictment. On Thursday, “The Court explained waiver of indictment to the Defendant, form executed, and the Court found that Defendant knowingly and voluntarily waived his right to indictment.Defendant WAIVED indictment on the record and agrees to proceed by way of Information. The Court found Defendant’s waiver knowing and voluntary. The Defendant waived formal reading, entered a plea of Not Guilty.” The waiver could be a sign Smith intends to cooperate with Federal authorities.

Smith is represented by Nicole Hamil-Scott, a Coral Springs attorney who specializes in family law matters.