A Syracuse man and an Atlanta resident have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in an identity theft and bank fraud scheme that used fraudulent identification documents to obtain loans, credit and other financial benefits.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III announced that 21-year-old Christopher Alexander Jr. of Syracuse was sentenced to 40 months in prison, while 31-year-old Devin Coleman of Atlanta received a 36-month prison sentence.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation as part of the Department of Justice’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.
According to federal prosecutors, Alexander admitted to purchasing fraudulent identification documents from Coleman, including fake driver’s licenses, passport cards and Social Security cards. Some of the documents contained Alexander’s photograph but the personal identifying information of identity theft victims.
Authorities said Alexander used the counterfeit identification to fraudulently obtain bank loans, lines of credit and an apartment lease, among other transactions.
Investigators also determined Coleman used an encrypted messaging application to coach Alexander on how to use the sophisticated fraudulent documents, which included security features designed to make them appear authentic. In one exchange, Alexander identified himself using the handle “9-5 will be my last resort.”
Senior U.S. District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby ordered Alexander to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term, pay $30,500 in restitution to victims and forfeit $15,000. Coleman was also sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $15,000 in restitution jointly with Alexander.
Sarcone said the sentences reflect the Justice Department’s continued effort to aggressively investigate and prosecute fraud offenses.
FBI Albany Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli said the agency will continue working with federal partners to pursue individuals who use fraud and identity theft for personal financial gain.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael F. Perry prosecuted the case.
