LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — An Arkansas businesswoman who pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud is seeking a downward departure in her sentencing.

Chandler Wilson Carroll’s defense is arguing that while she acknowledges the offense is serious, other factors indicate that a lighter sentencing may be appropriate in this case.

Carroll’s offence level under the guidelines is 20, and her criminal history category is 1.

The defense cited a multitude of reasons, including her family history, mental illness history, lack of criminal history, and being a mother to small children.

The defense argued that under United States v. Chase, United States v. Lamoreaux, and United States v. Davis, she could qualify for a downward variance or departure.

The defendant underwent extensive mental health treatment after a suicide attempt in July 2025. Carroll was prescribed numerous medications and sought intensive treatment at a psychiatric facility in Little Rock.

She is currently anticipating entering into a trauma-centered treatment program, which will take a year to complete.

The defense also argues that the defendant’s need to care for her children is a proper factor to consider in determining this sentence.

Carroll is currently undergoing a divorce from her husband, who she claims was physically abusive to one of the children in August of 2025.

A separate investigation into that incident is ongoing.

The husband no longer lives at the house and Carroll does not want her husband to have custody of the children if she is incarcerated. However, her mother, is disabled and cannot assume care of the children. The defense argues that the children are at a age in particular need of their mother.

Lastly, the defense cited Carroll’s lack of criminal history, and that she is no danger to the public of committing further crimes. They also cite her need for long-term mental health treatment, of which the quality may not be as high in a prison system.

The defense asks for a probationary period, accompanied by a fine or community service in lieu of prison time.

According to federal court documents obtained in April 2024, Carroll was facing 4 counts of wire fraud and 4 counts of money laundering for abusing the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL). Carroll was an owner of 3 different businesses involved in the alleged fraud: WilCarr Ventures, Wilson Carroll Research Services (WCRS), and Brook Haven Lodge.

In total, Carroll was awarded a little over $2 million in small business loans.