Tampa, Florida – U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg announced a major blow to identity thieves as Antonio Resendiz-Badillo, 39, of Mexico, was indicted for aggravated identity theft, misuse of Social Security numbers, and making false statements regarding citizenship with the intent to engage unlawfully in employment.
If convicted on all counts, Resendiz-Badillo faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 2 years, up to 12 years, in federal prison. The indictment, which is merely a formal charge, does not presume guilt until proven in a court of law.
According to the indictments, Resendiz-Badillo and his alleged accomplice, Erlin Maradiaga-Flores, 30, of Honduras, misused the names and Social Security numbers of others and falsely claimed to be United States citizens with the intent to engage unlawfully in employment.
The case is a stark reminder that identity thieves will stop at nothing to exploit the system and make a quick buck. However, law enforcement agencies are hot on their heels, working tirelessly to bring these perpetrators to justice.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Department of Transportation – Office of Inspector General, the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.
“These individuals thought they could get away with using fake identities and stealing the Social Security numbers of others,” said U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg. “But thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement partners, they will now face the consequences of their actions.”
The case will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher F. Murray. Resendiz-Badillo and Maradiaga-Flores are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The public is reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Identity theft is a serious crime that can have devastating consequences for its victims. By working together, we can make our communities safer and more secure.
Related Federal Cases
- Miami Dade Students, Target Employees Plead Guilty in Identity Theft Tax Fraud Scheme · Florida
- Miami Man Sentenced for 14 Years in Identity Theft Scheme · Florida
- Francois Accused of Identity Theft Tax Fraud · Florida
- Hollywood Fraudster Pleads Guilty to $1M Identity Theft · Florida
- Ogletree Gets 30 Months for Identity Theft Scheme · Florida
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
