A Maryland man has pleaded guilty to running a scam in which he sold fake pit bull puppies to over 100 victims, collecting a total of $158,000.
Fonjeck Eric Azoh, 42, of Mount Rainier, Md., was arrested in January 2021 and has been in custody ever since. He is set to be sentenced on November 17, 2021, by U.S. District Court Judge Carl J. Nichols.
According to the government’s evidence, Azoh advertised the sale of pit bull puppies on various websites between January 2019 and October 2020. He directed victims to send money to him through money transfer businesses, which he then collected at retail stores and elsewhere.
Ten victims of the scam spoke to Grimy Times, describing how they were duped into sending thousands of dollars for puppies that never arrived. Many said they were left feeling heartbroken and financially ruined.
Acting U.S. Attorney Channing D. Phillips commended the work of those who investigated the case, including HSI’s Raymond Villanueva. ‘This case highlights the importance of protecting consumers from scams and holding those responsible accountable,’ Phillips said in a statement.
Azoh faces a statutory maximum of 20 years in prison and potential financial penalties. As part of the plea agreement, he agreed to forfeit $67,000 seized by law enforcement during the investigation and pay an additional $92,000 forfeiture money judgment.
The case is a stark reminder of the importance of doing your research before making online purchases, especially when it comes to pets. ‘Be cautious of any website or seller that demands payment via money transfer or wire service,’ warns U.S. Attorney Phillips. ‘And if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.’
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Key Facts
- State: Washington DC
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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