BANGOR, Maine – Mohammad K. Mohmand, 43, formerly of Orono, is looking at a lengthy federal prison sentence after admitting today to a brazen credit card fraud scheme that bled over $100,000 from financial institutions. Mohmand, who once operated the Orono Thriftway Food Center, pleaded guilty to access device fraud in federal court, according to U.S. Attorney Darcie N. McElwee.
The scam, uncovered by the U.S. Secret Service and the Orono Police Department, involved Mohmand using the store’s payment terminal to process bogus credit and debit card returns. He wasn’t refunding actual customers, though. Instead, the illicit returns were directed to the accounts of his family and friends, effectively funneling stolen funds into their pockets.
Court records show the fraudulent activity took place in January 2020. Mohmand systematically processed these false returns, causing illegitimate payments to flow to his associates and simultaneously overdrawing the store’s bank account linked to credit card settlements. The scheme wasn’t a victimless one; a financial institution absorbed the significant losses.
Mohmand now faces a grim future. He’s potentially facing up to 15 years behind bars and a hefty $250,000 fine. If that wasn’t enough, he could also be subjected to up to three years of supervised release after serving his prison term. The U.S. Probation Office will conduct a presentence investigation report to provide the judge with a comprehensive overview of Mohmand’s background and the impact of his crimes.
A federal district judge will ultimately determine the sentence, weighing the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, statutory factors, and the details of the investigation. While a guilty plea is a step towards accountability, it doesn’t guarantee leniency. The Secret Service and Orono PD built a solid case, and the judge will have ample information to consider when handing down the punishment.
The case highlights the Secret Service’s ongoing commitment to combating financial crimes, even at the local level. While often associated with protecting dignitaries, the agency plays a critical role in safeguarding the nation’s financial infrastructure. This investigation, in conjunction with the Orono Police Department, sent a clear message: financial fraud will be pursued, regardless of the scale or location.
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Key Facts
- Agency: U.S. Secret Service
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Press Release
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