Hector Ortiz, Wire Fraud, New York 2014

A Florida man has been sentenced to prison for his role in a massive scam that targeted a New York business.

Hector Ortiz, 49, of Orlando, Florida, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for his role in a wire fraud scheme that stole $7,862,500 from Sweeteners Plus, Inc. in Lakeville, N.Y.

According to the U.S. Attorney's office, Ortiz devised a scheme to defraud Sweeteners Plus in or about September 2011 and continuing thereafter until on or about January 1, 2012.

Ortiz made multiple false and fraudulent representations in relation to a contract to deliver 12,500 metric tons of refined sugar.

The scheme ultimately resulted in the theft of over $7.8 million from the New York business.

The investigation into Ortiz's scheme was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent In Charge Brian P. Boetig.

Postal Inspectors with the United States Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector In Charge Shelley Binkowski, also assisted in the investigation.

Ortiz's plea was the culmination of a lengthy investigation that uncovered a complex web of deceit and corruption.

The scheme was designed to defraud Sweeteners Plus out of millions of dollars, and Ortiz's actions caused significant financial harm to the business.

The sentencing of Ortiz brings an end to a long and complex case.

The sentencing was held on September 11, 2014, at 9:30 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci.

The case against Ortiz serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in business dealings.

Companies must be cautious when entering into contracts and must carefully vet their partners to avoid falling victim to scams like the one orchestrated by Ortiz.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdny/pr/florida-man-pleads-guilty-fraud-charge