Dougherty Couple, Wire Fraud & Obstruction of Justice, Idaho 2017

Boise Couple Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Elderly Victim of Home

James Dougherty, 43, and his wife, Jessica Dougherty, 42, both of Boise, Idaho, pleaded guilty to serious crimes after defrauding an elderly victim of her home in 2015.

According to court records, James and Jessica Dougherty moved into the victim's 46-acre ranch in Boise to provide assistance in exchange for free rent. However, after the victim's health deteriorated, James gained control of her finances, including being named as her power-of-attorney for finances.

In 2015, a trust was executed, naming James and Jessica Dougherty as primary beneficiaries of the victim's estate, including the ranch. The victim's ranch was then transferred to the trust, and in 2016, James was appointed sole trustee.

James Dougherty used the victim's funds to pay his and Jessica's creditors and ultimately transfer the ranch into their personal names. The couple then entered into an agreement to purchase the ranch from the trust for less than its market value.

After their arrest in August 2022, Jessica Dougherty made a call from the Ada County jail, requesting that an individual 'flash' or 'reset' a Dell laptop computer located at the ranch, resulting in the destruction of records relevant to the investigation.

James and Jessica Dougherty are scheduled to be sentenced on April 2, 2024, and face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit stated, 'Defrauding an elderly victim out of her home is a reprehensible crime. We must treat elders with the decency and respect they deserve, and our Office will continue to vigorously investigate and prosecute those who defraud elderly victims.'

Defendant/Respondent: James Dougherty and Jessica Dougherty

Criminal Charges: Wire Fraud and Obstruction of Justice

City and State: Boise, Idaho

Exact Date: 2015 (crime date)

Sentence or Outcome: Scheduled to be sentenced on April 2, 2024, facing a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison

Dollar Amounts: None

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-id/pr/husband-and-wife-plead-guilty-wire-fraud-and-obstruction-justice-relating-defrauding