PORTLAND, Ore. — A Tigard restaurant owner has pleaded guilty to federal money laundering charges after using government relief funds meant for his business to pay off his parents’ personal debts.
Misuse of Federal Relief Funds
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon, 32-year-old Bryan Ochoa Diaz admitted to diverting a large portion of a $350,000 Small Business Administration (SBA) loan intended to support his family’s restaurant, Casa Colima, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The loan, approved as part of federal pandemic relief programs, came with strict conditions: funds were to be used only as working capital to offset economic losses tied to the pandemic. Personal, family, or household use was strictly prohibited.
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Transfers to Parents’ Accounts
Court documents show that on August 16, 2021, the SBA deposited $350,000 into Casa Colima’s business account. The next day, Ochoa Diaz transferred:
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$100,000 into his parents’ personal bank account
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$100,000 toward his parents’ mortgage loan
These transactions accounted for more than half of the loan’s value, directly violating the loan’s terms.
Coast Guard Reserve Officer Faces Charges
In addition to operating the family-owned restaurant, Ochoa Diaz serves as a reserve officer with the U.S. Coast Guard. He waived indictment by a grand jury and pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering on September 5, 2025.
As part of his plea, Ochoa Diaz has since repaid the full $350,000 to the SBA in restitution.
Possible Sentence
Despite repayment, Ochoa Diaz still faces serious penalties. He could be sentenced to:
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Up to 10 years in prison
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A fine of up to $250,000
His sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 15, 2025, before a U.S. District Court judge.
Broader Context
The case highlights ongoing federal scrutiny over pandemic relief programs. Billions of dollars in loans and grants were distributed nationwide to help small businesses survive COVID-19 shutdowns, but federal officials have since uncovered widespread fraud and misuse of funds.
By pleading guilty and repaying the money, Ochoa Diaz may receive some leniency at sentencing. Still, prosecutors emphasized the importance of holding individuals accountable when taxpayer funds meant for economic recovery are diverted for personal gain.
