An Indian national has admitted to masterminding a massive phone scam that swindled $9 million from telephone providers and insurance companies.
Newark resident Sandeep Bengera, 36, pleaded guilty in a Newark federal court to two counts of conspiracy, including one count of mail fraud and one count of interstate transfer of stolen property.
Between June 2013 and June 2019, Bengera and his co-conspirators used stolen and fake identities to submit false claims for replacement cellular devices, which were then resold outside the United States.
The scheme involved a network of mailboxes and storage units across the country, including in New Jersey, where the replacement devices were shipped and held before being sold to third parties.
Bengera faces up to 20 years in prison for the mail fraud charge and up to five years for the interstate transfer of stolen property charge. His sentencing is scheduled for October 10, 2024.
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger credited various law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations, with the investigation that led to Bengera’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachelle M. Navarro of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Newark.
Bengera’s indictment is a significant blow to the widespread scheme, which was thought to have reached millions of dollars in stolen goods.
As the investigation continues, Grimy Times will provide updates on this developing story.
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Key Facts
- State: New Jersey
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: White Collar Crime|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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