Financial Crime World

Financial Crime Case Study: Northern Mariana Islands Couple Found Guilty of Illegal Gambling and Money Laundering

A Significant Victory for Law Enforcement

A federal jury in Guam has delivered a verdict, finding William M. Perez and Jennie Wen Chin Pau guilty of participating in an illegal gambling business and money laundering. The defendants were accused of running an illegal gambling operation at the MGM Spa building in the Northern Mariana Islands from 2006 to 2010.

The Scheme

The scheme involved offering card games such as baccarat and poker, taking a percentage of the winnings, and charging players for food and drink. Perez and Pau were found guilty on multiple counts, including:

  • Conspiracy to commit illegal gambling
  • Illegal gambling business
  • Money laundering
  • Structuring

Sentencing and Co-Defendants

Perez and Pau will be sentenced by Chief Judge Frances Tydingco-Gatewood on March 28th. Two co-defendants, Jimmy Hsieh and Pauline Perez, had previously pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. A third co-defendant, Wai Kam Ho, remains charged and is expected to go on trial early next year.

Investigation

The investigation was a collaborative effort between the:

  • Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Unit (IRS-CI)
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
  • Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS)

Quotes

“This case demonstrates our commitment to holding accountable those involved in facilitating illegal gambling businesses,” said U.S. Attorney Alicia Limtiaco.

Prison Time and Significance

The defendants face significant prison time, with each count carrying a maximum term of five years or 20 years. This case serves as a prime example of the financial crimes that can occur in the Northern Mariana Islands and highlights the importance of continued collaboration between law enforcement agencies to combat these types of offenses.

Key Takeaways

  • The case demonstrates the importance of holding accountable those involved in illegal gambling businesses
  • Collaboration between law enforcement agencies is crucial in combating financial crimes
  • The defendants face significant prison time for their crimes