Counterfeit ID Scammers Stole $800,000 From Casino Customers
Key Summary
Federal prosecutors have sentenced five individuals to prison terms for using counterfeit driver's licenses to steal over $800,000 from a casino and online gaming services company. The scheme, which ran from July 2021 to March 2024, involved obtaining personal data to manufacture fake licenses for repeated withdrawals at casinos nationwide.
Background
Five defendants were sentenced to prison terms totaling more than 15 years for a conspiracy that stole over $800,000 from a casino and online gaming services company using stolen identities and counterfeit driver's licenses.
Charges
The defendants pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Sentencing
Jeremy Cushing, 53, of Topeka, was sentenced to 95 months; Rachael Matoian, 36, of Topeka, received 38 months; Abraham Ruiz, 44, of Joplin, Missouri, got 34 months; and both Cassandra Williams, 39, of Spring Valley, California, and Leroy Noll, 46, of Newton, were sentenced to 12 months each.
Investigation
The FBI, Prairie Band Potawatomi Tribal Police Department and Jackson County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Conclusion
The scheme used a method of fabricating official identity documents to commit wire fraud. This sentencing should be a healthy reminder to all: no matter who you try to defraud or how you try to do it, the FBI will bear all resources to seek justice and to bring closure for victims.