Banks in Philadelphia were hit with a massive $400,000 counterfeit check scam, with a shocking twist: one of their own employees was behind it all. Michael Tuffour, a 27-year-old customer service representative for TD Bank, was charged by indictment for his role in the scheme.
According to the indictment, unsealed May 6, 2016, Tuffour, of Philadelphia, was accused of one count of bank fraud and three counts of aggravated identity theft. The US Attorney’s Office revealed that Tuffour abused his position of trust in numerous ways, including opening fraudulent accounts for co-conspirators, helping them withdraw cash before the bank discovered the checks were counterfeit, and wiring money from the accounts before the bank caught on.
The indictment also alleges that Tuffour secretly stole customer information, which he sold to co-conspirators. They used that information to manufacture false IDs and counterfeit checks, allowing them to unlawfully access customers’ accounts.
Tuffour faces a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison, a maximum of 36 years, as well as a period of supervised release, a possible fine, and a $400 special assessment. The case was investigated by the US Secret Service and the FBI, and is being prosecuted by Assistant US Attorney Michael S. Lowe.
The indictment serves as a stark reminder that even the most trusted members of society can be capable of the most heinous crimes. An indictment is an accusation, and Tuffour is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
As the investigation continues, one thing is certain: the people of Philadelphia will be keeping a close eye on this case, and the fate of Michael Tuffour and his co-conspirators will be closely watched.
The case is a sobering reminder of the importance of bank security and the need for employees to act with integrity. As the US Attorney’s Office continues to investigate and prosecute financial crimes, the Grimy Times will be there, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Related Federal Cases
- Newark Resident Faces Charges for Counterfeit Credit Card Scam · Pennsylvania
- Butler Co. Woman Pleads Guilty in Counterfeit Card Scam · Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh’s Jonathan Brown Gets Sentenced in Counterfeit Check Fraud · Pennsylvania
- Incline Attorney’s $1.3M Crypto Scam · Pennsylvania
- Vet Milks the Military: $1M+ Scam · Pennsylvania
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes|White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News