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Bank Employees Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud
A pair of former IBC Bank employees in Laredo, Texas, have been ordered to federal prison for their roles in a brazen bank fraud scheme that cost the bank over $200,000. Antonieta De La Cruz and Anaiza Morales, both 36 and 38 years old, respectively, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud charges in separate court appearances.
According to court documents, De La Cruz and Morales misused their positions as IBC Sales Associates to execute 31 unauthorized loans and loan advances between 2011 and July 2014. The duo falsified bank records, forged signatures and endorsements, and pledged customers’ certificate of deposits as collateral without their knowledge or consent.
The scheme, which resulted in a total loss of approximately $219,720.11 for IBC Bank, was uncovered through a joint investigation by the U.S. Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher S. Coker is prosecuting the case.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña handed down the sentences, noting that IBC Bank promotes from within and has an interest in its employees reaching their full potential, making their breach of trust a particularly egregious crime. De La Cruz was ordered to serve a 27-month term in federal prison, with no possibility of parole. Morales was sentenced to the same term, but was permitted to remain on bond and will voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility at a later date.
Both women were further ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $219,720.11 to IBC Bank. The sentences serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of betraying the public’s trust and engaging in fraudulent activity.
The case is a sobering reminder of the importance of accountability in the workplace and the devastating consequences of financial crimes. The public can rest assured that the U.S. Secret Service and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher S. Coker will continue to pursue justice in cases like this.
De La Cruz has been and will remain in custody, while Morales will surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility at a later date. The sentences handed down in this case are a testament to the commitment of law enforcement to protecting the public and upholding the law.
Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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