Related Federal Cases
- Gorham Therapist Paulo Braga Pleads Guilty to MaineCare Fraud · Maine
- George Noonan, Cocaine Distribution Conspiracy, Portland ME, 2023 · Washington
- Election Fraud Crackdown: Feds Deploy Legal Team for Nov. 8 · District of Columbia
- David B. Watson Sr. Pleads Guilty to VA Benefits Fraud · Maine
- Jamila Williams-Stevenson Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud, ID Theft · Rhode Island
Gorham Man Sentenced to 5 Years Probation for Wire Fraud Conspiracy
A 67-year-old Gorham man, Michael Barden, has been sentenced to 5 years of probation for his role in a wire fraud conspiracy, according to U.S. Attorney Halsey B. Frank.
Barden, 67, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nancy Torresen, who also ordered him to pay restitution in an amount to be determined at a future proceeding. Barden had previously pleaded guilty to a one-count information charging him with a wire fraud conspiracy on January 31, 2020.
According to information revealed in court, Barden met an individual online and began a virtual romance, but never met this person in person. The individual used credit card accounts illegally obtained to make online purchases from retailers in Maine and elsewhere, and Barden would pick up or accept delivery of the merchandise and then sell it through online marketplace websites.
Barden would keep a small share of the proceeds and wire the rest of the proceeds overseas. In addition, he assisted this person in fraudulently purchasing a motor vehicle online by posing as the buyer and using the buyer’s identification to complete the purchase. It is estimated that the conspiracy stole between $40,000 and $95,000.
“The defendant in this case was drawn into criminal activity through what he thought was an online relationship,” U.S. Attorney Frank said. “Maine residents need to be wary of any online solicitations for friendships or romances from people they do not know. Scammers overseas are using Mainers to assist in criminal activity that can lead to federal felony convictions for all involved.”
The investigation into Barden’s role in the wire fraud conspiracy was a collaborative effort between the U.S. Secret Service and the Maine State Police.
With this sentencing, residents of Maine are reminded of the dangers of online scams and the importance of being vigilant when engaging with unknown individuals online.
Key Facts
- State: Maine
- Category: Cybercrime|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
