Financial Crime World

Financial Institution Fraud Investigation Nets Sentences for Conspirators in Northern Mariana Islands

Multiple Individuals Sentenced for Advance Fee and Money Laundering Scheme

FBI officials announced yesterday that a group of individuals involved in an advance fee and money laundering scheme were sentenced to prison terms, restitution, and fines in the US District Court of Guam. The defendants, who operated across multiple jurisdictions, fraudulently obtained approximately $2.6 million from victim-investors on the island by inducing them to pay bogus fees and expenses associated with a multimillion-dollar inheritance.

Key Findings

  • The scheme targeted over 60 victims, mostly from Guam
  • The conspirators used shell corporations to receive, withdraw, and transfer funds between co-conspirators in the US and Nigeria
  • At least 10 percent of the victim funds flowed into controlled accounts kept by the conspirators

Sentences Handed Down

  • Sally Cruz Roberto, 56, of Santa Rita, Guam:
    • Sentenced to 33 months in prison
    • Ordered to pay $1.03 million in restitution after being found guilty of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and 38 counts of wire fraud
  • Monique Jones, 49, of Dallas, Texas:
    • Received a 48-month sentence
    • Ordered to pay $578,130 in restitution after being found guilty of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering
  • Mekayda D. Jones, 24, also of Dallas:
    • Sentenced to 36 months in prison
    • Ordered to pay $387,160 in restitution
  • Okechukwu F. Iwuji, a 38-year-old Nigerian citizen previously residing in Orlando, Florida:
    • Received a 45-month sentence for his role in the conspiracy
    • Ordered to pay $475,710 in restitution after being found guilty of conspiracy to commit wire fraud

Quotes from Authorities

  • US Attorney Shawn N. Anderson: “This far-reaching conspiracy preyed on innocent individuals, and we will continue to pursue restitution for those harmed by these defendants’ actions. The public must remain vigilant against this type of fraud.”
  • FBI Special Agent in Charge Steven Merrill: “If it’s too good to be true, it probably is. If you feel you’ve been scammed, please contact the FBI or report it online.”

Investigation and Prosecution

The investigation was a joint effort between the FBI Guam Resident Agency, Homeland Security Investigations, the US Secret Service, and the Guam Police Department. The case was prosecuted by First Assistant US Attorney Marivic P. David.