An indictment was unsealed in Nashville, Tennessee, charging nine members of a multi-state money laundering organization, including individuals from Houston, Texas. The organization is accused of laundering millions of dollars derived from internet fraud, such as business email compromise schemes.
Among the defendants are Samson A. Omoniyi, Carlesha L. Perry, Lauren O. Guidry, and Caira Y. Osby, all from Houston. According to court documents, they were part of a long-running operation since November 2016. The alleged conspirators organized their scheme by employing recruiters, or “herders,” to enlist and guide “money mules” in laundering funds acquired through internet frauds aimed at businesses and individuals both within the United States and internationally. Sham companies were used to conceal the fraud proceeds, with the conspiracy agreeing to launder over $20 million.
In addition to internet fraud, the group is said to have engaged in romance scams, establishing trust with victims through romantic relationships before deceitfully demanding money. Furthermore, the defendants are accused of duping victims into sending money under the pretense of needing funds to access substantial inheritances…