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Buffalo Sisters Sentenced for Bank Fraud, Check Kiting Scheme
BUFFALO, N.Y.—In a shocking case of financial deceit, two Buffalo sisters have been sentenced for their involvement in a bank fraud and check kiting scheme that left local banks high and dry.
Sayonara Heath, 33, and her sister, Sade Heath, 28, both of Buffalo, NY, were convicted of bank fraud and sentenced to time served plus two years supervised release by Chief District Court Judge William M. Skretny. The sisters’ scheme involved opening bank accounts and depositing large checks that were either written on accounts with insufficient funds or on accounts that had been closed.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell T. Ippolito, Jr., who handled the prosecution, stated that the defendants were part of a conspiracy to defraud local area banks. The defendants withdrew smaller amounts from the accounts before the banks could determine that the checks were not supported by any funds. Sayonara Heath received $628.89 from Key Bank and Bank of America, but the intended loss was $4,000. Sade Heath received $1,027.55 from Key Bank and Bank of America, but the intended loss was $16,050.
Co-conspirators Carlique Deberry, Nichole Dean, and Antwan Green have also been convicted of bank fraud charges and are awaiting sentencing. The sentencings are the culmination of an investigation on the part of Special Agents of the United States Secret Service, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Tracy Gast.
The sisters’ scheme was a brazen attempt to milk the system for all it was worth. By depositing large checks and withdrawing smaller amounts, they were able to reap a significant profit while leaving the banks to absorb the losses. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in the financial sector.
As the sisters begin their supervised release, they will be closely monitored to ensure that they do not reoffend. The case is a victory for the community and a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement officials who worked tirelessly to bring the defendants to justice.
The investigation and prosecution of this case are a prime example of the U.S. Attorney’s Office commitment to protecting the integrity of the financial system and holding those responsible for financial crimes accountable for their actions.
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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