At least, 27 people including a Nigerian have been charged to court in connection with an alleged multi-million dollar scheme to defraud Central Pennsylvania banks and financial institutions in the United States.
Those who are charged and in custody are: Rilwan Akesode; a Nigerian national, Lopez, Warta, Wilson, Rosario, Monserratt, James, Whittaker, Green, Nassah Wright, Tyquan Butler-Stern, Sincere Ussery, Dysaun Hickey, Ellis Wallace, Kelyn Thomas, Johnathan Ramos, Dorien Ervin, Honisty Brown, Monet Santana, Ivan Valera and Tyler Hunter.
Individuals who have been charged but are not in custody are: Elison Onufer, Jnaesha Totton, Kapree Wells, Daeshaun Blanding, Emerson Minnich, and Myklin Jones.
The Attorney General’s office alleges that eight leaders—Michael Lopez, Ojibway Warta, Gabriel Wilson, Ayden Rosario, Zyaire Monserrat, Devon James, Lavon Whittaker, and Isiah Green—spearheaded a sophisticated fraud ring.
The alleged modus operandi of the group involved impersonating bank personnel to illicitly acquire customer account details.
They then used this data to make unauthorized withdrawals and deposit the stolen funds into accounts controlled by their organization.
The AG’s office confirmed that the alleged scheme targeted financial institutions in Dauphin and Cumberland counties and resulted in a total loss of $2.3 million.
The office said victims reported receiving phone calls or texts from individuals claiming to be from their bank, often identifying themselves as fraud department personnel.
Once a victim gives their information, they are locked out, and their money is taken.
“This coordinated and calculated criminal enterprise duped Pennsylvanians and defrauded financial institutions to the tune of more than two million dollars,” Attorney General Sunday said.
“This is at least the third multi-million dollar bank fraud scheme recently disbanded by our Financial Crimes Section in collaboration with partners.
“I commend the financial institutions for their full cooperation and willingness to assist impacted customers.”
The eight leaders were charged with felony corrupt organizations, access device fraud, theft, and related offenses, and the 19 others were charged with similar offenses, according to the AG’s office.
“These individuals exploited the trust of our communities and manipulated the banking system for personal gain,” said Capt. James A. Reinard, Director of the Special Investigations Division, PSP Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
“Our investigators worked with the Office of Attorney General to dismantle this scheme and seek justice for victims. Protecting Pennsylvanians from complex financial crimes remains a top priority for the Pennsylvania State Police.”
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