Webbers Falls Woman Sentenced to 18 Months for Wire Fraud
Muskogee, OKLAHOMA – Leah Lynette Smith, age 51, of Webbers Falls, Oklahoma was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment and 3 years supervised release for Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which was sparked by an alert citizen who notified the appropriate law enforcement agency. Following a thorough investigation, Smith was indicted, admitted guilt, and is being held accountable for her unlawful acts.
According to the Information, on or about September 3, 2013, Smith provided false affidavits claiming to be the rightful heir of unclaimed assets, thereby causing to be transmitted by means of wire communication in interstate commerce payment of a check in the amount of $42,385.00.
United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester commended the alert citizen for their role in bringing the scheme to light. “Schemes to defraud individuals, businesses, and government programs are common,” he said. “I encourage everyone to keep a watchful eye for suspicious conduct that might lead you to believe that a person is engaged in activity designed to commit a fraud. We cannot combat this without your help.”
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Melody Nelson represented the United States. Smith will remain in custody pending transportation to the designated federal facility where the non-paroleable sentence will be served.
Leah Lynette Smith faces a significant sentence for her involvement in the Wire Fraud scheme. Her imprisonment and supervised release are a testament to the importance of vigilant citizens and thorough investigations in combating financial crimes.
The case against Smith serves as a reminder that financial crimes can have far-reaching consequences. It is essential for individuals and businesses to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.
Key Facts
- State: Oklahoma
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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