The federal government is intensifying efforts to combat check fraud. The prosecution of multiple individuals in a recent Massachusetts check fraud case makes it clear: the penalties for these crimes are severe, and federal prosecutors are taking an aggressive stance.
Prosecutors Allege A Sophisticated Fraud Scheme Targeting U.S. Tax Refunds
According to federal charging documents, eight individuals allegedly conspired to steal U.S. Treasury tax refund checks intended for legitimate taxpayers. The scheme involved altering checks owing to bone fide taxpayers to appear payable to shell companies controlled by the defendants, who then deposited the checks into various bank and credit union accounts throughout the Metro Boston area. In total, more than $8.8 million was allegedly stolen in 2023 and 2024.
Who Was Charged?
The following individuals are facing serious federal charges, with some already in federal custody:
- Gino Rosario Tyler Alexander Allegra, 31, of Brockton – charged with theft of $861,646 in government funds
- Eric Banks, 70, of Quincy – charged with theft of $1,173,482
- Jesse El-Ghoul, 31, of Leominster – charged with theft of $1,355,863
- Nnamdi Opara, 30, of Woburn – charged with theft of $700,767
- Gurprit Singh, 34, of Framingham – charged with theft of $2,547,508
- Amarpreet Singh, 33, of Framingham – charged with theft of $536,214
- Lonnie Smith-Matthews, 33, of Hyde Park – charged with theft of $150,000 and bank fraud involving $232,588
- Domingo Villari, 49, of Framingham – charged with theft of $1,288,575
Several of the accused are already in custody and set to appear in federal court, while two remain at large.
Check Fraud Allegations: The Stakes Are High
Federal prosecutors and investigative agencies handling the crime include the IRS Criminal Investigation division and the Treasury Inspector General. Federal authorities made statements about the seriousness of this type of fraud and their intent to crack down: “Taking government money is not a victimless crime,” U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley stated. “If you cash or deposit a refund check that you know is not yours, you will be prosecuted.”
The charge of theft of government funds carries penalties of up to 10 years in federal prison, while bank fraud can result in up to 30 years of imprisonment. Convictions also include steep financial penalties and long-term supervised release.
Facing Federal Charges for Check Fraud? You Need Experienced Legal Representation
Federal white collar crimes like check fraud and bank fraud are prosecuted with intense scrutiny and backed by the full resources of agencies like the IRS and U.S. Treasury. If you or a loved one are under investigation or facing charges in a similar case, it is absolutely critical to retain an experienced white collar criminal defense attorney with experience in complex federal litigation.
An experienced white collar criminal defense attorney understands the nuances of federal investigations, sentencing guidelines, and the importance of building a strategic and proactive defense. At Dhar Law, LLP, our award-winning team have defended countless serious white-collar crimes and check fraud in federal court. Don’t face these charges alone – contact a member of our team today at 617-880-6155.
