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money laundering defense lawyer

Mar 11 2022

Bronx man pleads guilty to identity fraud in money laundering scheme

White collar crimes are aggressively prosecuted in New York. The term covers many different offenses that range from bank fraud and computer crimes to identity theft and securities fraud.

A man from the Bronx, New York, pleaded guilty to several charges in connection to an international money laundering scheme that involved more than $12 million in illegal drug proceeds. He admitted to using a stolen identity to further the operation.

Roberto Mendoza-Arias, 51, was charged with one count of identity fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. He pleaded guilty to both counts and could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted.

According to court documents, Mendoza-Arias and others laundered more than $12.3 million between May 2019 and March 2020. He received substantial sums of cash drug proceeds from conspirators.

Mendoza-Arias bought over 650 cashier’s checks at bank branches in New York and New Jersey to launder the money. The checks were made out to individuals and companies specified by the heads of the money laundering operation.

Mendoza-Arias obtained a fake Pennsylvania driver’s license under someone else’s name in July 2018. The fraudulent ID was used to open several bank accounts and incorporate a business to further the money laundering scheme.

The money laundering charge carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years and a fine of $250,000 or twice the amount involved in the offense, whichever is greater. The identity fraud charge comes with a maximum prison sentence of five years and a $250,000 fine.

If you are under investigation for fraud or related offenses, you should speak to an experienced New York criminal defense attorney right away. White collar crimes like identity theft come with hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences.

Without quality legal representation in your corner, you risk losing your freedom and reputation. Contact Brill Legal Group today to learn more about how we can help you.