Related Federal Cases
- Tax Refund Scam Lands NY Man, Springfield Relative in Hot Water · Massachusetts
- NY Man Frazier Hit With Bank Fraud, Identity Theft Charges · Ohio
- Brooklyn Clinic Owner Gets 5 Years in $70M Medicare Fraud · New York
- HSBC Bank Hit With $2.1M Fraud Settlement · New York
- NJ Hedge Fund Owner Nick Lattanzio Nabbed in $4M Fraud · New Jersey
Bank Fraud Lands Funeral Home Owner in Hot Water
A former Rochester funeral home owner has pleaded guilty to bank fraud, facing up to 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
55-year-old Serrell Gayton, owner of Serenity Hills Funeral Chapel Inc., admitted to preparing false and fraudulent checks between December 15, 2011 and January 4, 2012. The scheme involved Gayton and an associate depositing checks at Citizens Bank branches in Rochester, resulting in a loss of approximately $3,800 to the bank.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa J. Miller, the checks totaled more than $17,000. The investigation, led by the United States Secret Service, uncovered the scheme and brought Gayton to justice.
Gayton’s guilty plea is a culmination of the Secret Service’s efforts under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Tracy Gast. The case highlights the importance of financial accountability and the consequences of fraudulent activities.
The sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 13, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa. The outcome of the hearing will determine the severity of Gayton’s punishment.
As the investigation continues, it is clear that Gayton’s actions have serious consequences. The loss to Citizens Bank and the potential for financial ruin for the bank’s customers are a result of his deceitful actions.
The case serves as a reminder that financial fraud will not be tolerated in our community. We will continue to hold individuals accountable for their actions and bring them to justice.
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
White Collar CrimeWhite Collar CrimeWhite Collar CrimeWhite Collar Crime