New Hampshire Man Stole Identities, Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud, Identity Theft

A Manchester, New Hampshire man has landed himself in hot water after pleading guilty to committing wire fraud and aggravated identity theft in federal court.

Dominic Barbosa, 29, of Manchester, New Hampshire, appeared in U.S. District Court in Portland, Maine, and copped to the charges. According to court records, Barbosa’s scheme involved obtaining identifications of individuals without their knowledge or consent.

Between March 2019 and March 2022, Barbosa allegedly stole mail in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine, including bank account statements, tax returns, and other documents containing others’ means of identification. He kept records of this information to use in the scheme.

As part of the scheme, Barbosa would apply for duplicate licenses for others, often changing the address, and then use the stolen identification information and duplicate driver’s licenses to open bank accounts, credit card accounts, and lines of credit in others’ names. He also used the stolen identifications to make purchases or enter into contracts.

When questioned by a United States Postal Inspector, Barbosa stated he had a cloud database with stolen identities, and investigators in Massachusetts found bins of mail and photocopies of identifying information in a storage unit Barbosa rented.

Barbosa faces up to 20 years imprisonment and a fine up to the greater of $250,000 or twice the gain or loss on one count of wire fraud. He also faces a minimum of two years, to be served consecutively to any other sentenced imposed, and a fine up to $250,000 on the aggravated identity theft charge.

A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles, South Berwick Police Department, Litchfield Police Department (NH), North Reading Police Department (MA), Salem Police Department (NH), and United States Postal Inspection Service investigated the case.

The investigation revealed that Barbosa’s scheme was not limited to one location, but rather spanned multiple states, including Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine. The sheer scope of his scheme is a stark reminder of the dangers of identity theft and the importance of protecting personal information.

Barbosa’s guilty plea is a significant blow to his reputation, and it’s likely that he will face significant consequences for his actions. As the investigation continues, it’s clear that Barbosa’s scheme was just the tip of the iceberg, and there may be more individuals involved.

The case serves as a reminder to the public to be vigilant and protect their personal information from falling into the wrong hands. With identity theft on the rise, it’s more important than ever to be cautious and take steps to prevent falling victim to such schemes.

A date for sentencing has not been set, but it’s clear that Barbosa will face the consequences of his actions. As the investigation continues, it’s likely that more details will emerge, and the public will learn more about the extent of Barbosa’s scheme.

The investigation was a collaborative effort between multiple agencies, and it’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of law enforcement officials that Barbosa was brought to justice.