Stephanie Hockridge, a former news anchor, has been sentenced to a decade in prison for federal conspiracy involving the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Hockridge co-founded Blueacorn, a loan processing company that participated in the PPP during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Details of the Sentencing
The federal court in Fort Worth, Texas, delivered the sentence on November 21, 2025. Hockridge learned her fate during a session attended by ABC15 reporters. She has been ordered to pay $64 million in restitution, which will be directed to the Small Business Administration. This restitution amount will be shared among Hockridge and her co-defendants.
Background of the Case
Hockridge, who served as an ABC15 anchor from 2011 to 2018, was convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud but acquitted of four wire fraud counts. The conspiracy charges are tied to fraudulent PPP applications submitted to obtain forgivable loans intended for COVID-19 relief.
- Defendants: Stephanie Hockridge and Nathan Reis
- Trial Outcome: Convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud
- Sentencing Date: November 21, 2025
- Restitution Amount: $64 million
- Original Sentencing Date: October 10, 2025
Family and Legal Arguments
Hockridge’s attorney requested a staggered sentence allowing her to serve time separately from her husband, who pleaded guilty to similar charges in August. The couple has a one-year-old son, a factor often considered by federal judges in such cases. However, the judge denied requests for a new trial based on claims of prosecutorial misconduct.
Next Steps
Following her sentencing, Hockridge has been released with an ankle monitor. She must report to prison by December 30, 2025. Her husband, Nate Reis, is scheduled for sentencing next month.
