Financial Crime World

Money Laundering Techniques Exposed in Northern Mariana Islands

Two Convicted of Money Laundering Charges in Illegal Gambling Operation

A federal jury in Guam has convicted two defendants, William M. Perez and Jennie Wen Chin Pau, of money laundering charges related to an illegal gambling operation in the Northern Mariana Islands (NMI). The verdict was announced by U.S. Attorney ALICIA A.G. LIMTIACO, who represents the Districts of Guam and NMI.

Illegal Gambling Operation

According to the evidence presented during the trial, Perez and Pau conspired with others to conduct an illegal gambling business in the MGM Spa building from 2006 to 2010. The operation involved:

  • Offering card games such as baccarat and poker
  • Taking a percentage of winnings
  • Charging players for food and drink

Money Laundering Charges

The defendants were found guilty of money laundering by knowingly conducting financial transactions involving the proceeds of an illegal gambling business. They also laundered funds through domestic financial institutions to evade reporting requirements.

Co-Defendants

Co-defendants Jimmy Hsieh and Pauline Perez have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing, while another co-defendant, Wai Kam Ho, remains charged with money laundering.

Law Enforcement Collaboration

U.S. Attorney Limtiaco praised the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, including:

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

The case highlights the commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to holding accountable those involved in facilitating illegal gambling operations.

Sentencing

The defendants face maximum prison terms ranging from five years for Conspiracy, Illegal Gambling, and Structuring counts, to 20 years for each count of Money Laundering. Sentencing is scheduled for March 28, 2014.

Prosecution

Assistant United States Attorney Karon V. Johnson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by Special Agents from IRS-CI, FBI, and NCIS.

Conclusion

This article highlights the sophisticated money laundering techniques used in the Northern Mariana Islands, where criminal organizations exploit financial institutions to launder illegal funds. The conviction serves as a warning to those involved in illegal gambling operations that law enforcement agencies are working together to disrupt and dismantle these criminal networks.