Four from Toledo Area Indicted for Creating Fake IDs
A federal grand jury has brought a four-count indictment against Mark Alex Simon, 34, Sarah Alberts, 34, Aaron Kuns, 33, and Benjamin Stalets, 28, all from the Toledo area, for producing and transferring false identification documents.
According to the indictment, the defendants created and transferred documents that appeared to be drivers’ licenses and personal identification cards issued by the states of Ohio, Michigan, and Utah, between June 2013 and February 2018. The investigation revealed that they were in possession of document-making implements and authentication features.
Prosecutors are seeking to forfeit over 500 bitcoins valued at $5.1 million, approximately $8,603 in cash and gold and silver coins and bars worth $265,299 that were seized as part of the investigation, according to the indictment.
The case is a result of a partnership between the Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office and the United States Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Noah P. Hood and Robert W. Kern are prosecuting the case following an investigation by the Ohio Department of Public Safety-Ohio Investigative Unit, United States Secret Service, and Wood County Prosecutor’s Office.
Mark Alex Simon, Sarah Alberts, Aaron Kuns, and Benjamin Stalets could face prison time if convicted. Their sentences will be determined by the court after review of factors unique to this case, including their prior criminal records, their role in the offenses, and the characteristics of the violation.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial, where the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Mandatory Facts: Defendant/Respondent: Mark Alex Simon, Sarah Alberts, Aaron Kuns, Benjamin Stalets, Real Full Name or Legal Entity Name, Exact Criminal Charges: Production of False Identification Document, Transfer of False Identification Documents, Possession of Document-Making Implements and Authentication Features, City and State: Toledo, Ohio, Exact Date: June 2013 – February 2018, Sentence or Outcome: To be determined, Dollar Amounts: $5.1 million, $8,603, $265,299
Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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