Chicago Man Convicted of Financial Institution Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft
A federal jury in Peoria, Illinois, returned guilty verdicts against Christopher Simmons, 40, of Chicago, for three counts of financial institution fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft on October 26, 2021. The case is a stark reminder of the risks involved in financial scams.
Simmons, who is currently in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service, faces statutory penalties of up to 30 years imprisonment, a maximum $1,000,000 fine, and maximum supervised release terms of five years for each of the financial institution fraud counts. He also faces a mandatory consecutive two-year sentence of imprisonment for the aggravated identity theft count, as well as a maximum one-year term of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine.
The evidence presented during the trial showed that Simmons did not own a 2016 Audi, which was used to obtain a $49,900 loan from Citizens Equity First Credit Union (CEFCU). The information provided about the car came from an eBay listing. Simmons used a stolen social security number, false address, and false earnings statements to seek car loans and credit cards from CEFCU.
Simmons was arrested after CEFCU alerted the Peoria County Sheriff’s Department about the fraud. His arrest marked the culmination of an investigation conducted by the Peoria County Sheriff’s Department and the United States Secret Service.
Simmons is not the only individual to face charges in this case. Adreen Canterberry previously pleaded guilty to financial institution fraud and was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment, five years supervised release, a $10,000 fine, and $49,900 in restitution.
Simmons’ sentencing has been scheduled for February 24, 2022 at the U.S. Courthouse in Peoria, Illinois. The case serves as a warning to individuals who engage in financial institution fraud and aggravated identity theft.
Key Facts
- State: Illinois
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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