Latvia: EPPO files charges in case involving project for female entrepreneurs

(Luxembourg, 21 September 2023) – On 20 September 2023, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) in Riga (Latvia) filed criminal charges in a case involving a project aimed at creating a centre for female entrepreneurs, funded by the EU’s European Neighbourhood Instrument.

The investigation started in March 2022, into an alleged fraud involving the development of a resource centre for female entrepreneurs in the Latgale region. The resource centre was meant to serve as a co-working space for budding entrepreneurs who had no premises or equipment of their own to launch their businesses.

However, the investigation established that such a resource centre was never developed, and that the services envisaged by the project were never delivered.

It is estimated that the damage caused to the European Union’s financial interests amounts to €35 000. The sole board member of the association that received the public funding has been charged. If found guilty, the accused faces between 2 and 10 years in prison, as well as possible confiscation of property.  

The investigation was conducted in cooperation with the Economic Crime Combating Division for the Criminal Police Department of the State Police Latgale Region Administration (Valsts policijas Latgales reģiona pārvalde Kriminālpolicijas birojs).

The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) is the independent public prosecution office of the European Union. It is responsible for investigating, prosecuting and bringing to judgment crimes against the financial interests of the EU.