Former Phoenix Anchor's Fraud Trial to Start

Former KNXV Phoenix news anchor Stephanie Hockridge is set to stand trial on wire fraud charges starting June 9. Hockridge, who co-founded the financial tech company Blueacorn during the COVID-19 pandemic, faces one count of conspiracy and four counts of wire fraud alongside her husband, Nathan Reis, whose trial is scheduled for August.

Prosecutors have compiled a 91-page list of exhibits, including WhatsApp messages discussing Blueacorn business, text messages referencing a loan application that "looks like fraud," and even a mention of someone's "connection to a hitman". A superseding indictment alleges the couple and their co-conspirators fabricated payroll records, tax documents, and bank statements to secure fraudulent PPP loans. They are also accused of charging borrowers kickbacks based on the percentage of their loans funded.

Both defendants have pleaded not guilty.

KNXV is covering the story.