⏱ 2 min read
Thomas Brown Hammond, a California man, has paid $325,000 in restitution to 14 victims in Montana, nearly a decade after his 2012 conviction for theft from an employee benefit plan. Hammond, a registered securities representative and investment advisor, was found guilty of inducing his victims to invest in a fraudulent private portfolio, instead using the funds for personal expenses. The conviction occurred in the Eastern District of California, but Hammond later moved to Montana, where he served his supervised release. The restitution payment was made possible after Hammond received a substantial inheritance, which was garnished by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Hammond’s actions were deemed ‘inexcusable’ by Judge John A. Mendez during his sentencing, where he was ordered to pay $536,521 to his victims. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has been actively enforcing restitution collection, empowered by federal law to collect judgments for 20 years after a defendant’s release from prison. This prolonged collection period has led to a substantial recovery for Hammond’s victims, years after his initial conviction.
The $325,000 payment is a significant step towards compensating Hammond’s victims, but $203,817 still remains to be paid. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to pursue restitution, ensuring that Hammond’s victims receive the full amount they are owed. The case highlights the importance of persistent efforts by law enforcement to hold fraudsters accountable and secure justice for their victims.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office has demonstrated its commitment to enforcing restitution collection, even years after a defendant’s conviction. This dedication to justice has resulted in a substantial recovery for Hammond’s victims, serving as a reminder that fraudsters will be held accountable for their actions.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: Montana
- Location: MT
- Source: DOJ Press Release
