GRIMY TIMES EXCLUSIVE: In a stunning turn of events, 44-year-old Queen Naja, also known as Renata Winifred Ince and Naja Talibah Zahir, has been convicted for her pivotal role in a $1 million government fraud scheme targeting the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Today, Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson and Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman announced the conviction following a federal jury’s verdict on August 13, 2025.
The fraudulent scheme, which spanned two years, involved Naja and her co-conspirator, Quentin Diego Sturgeon of Montgomery, Alabama. According to court records, the duo concocted a plan to deceitfully secure funds from the IRS by establishing a fake trust, submitting false documents, and cashing in on a fraudulent check. The plot culminated in the issuance of a U.S. Treasury check totaling $1,010,561.26.
Sturgeon, 42, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and money laundering on November 25, 2024. He admitted using proceeds from the scheme to purchase luxury items, including a Mercedes-Benz automobile.
This conviction marks a significant victory for federal prosecutors, IRS Criminal Investigation, and local law enforcement, who worked tirelessly to bring Naja and Sturgeon to justice. Acting United States Attorney Davidson emphasized the gravity of the offense, stating, “This verdict should send a clear warning that if you defraud the United States government, you will be held accountable.”
Special Agent in Charge Hardeman echoed these sentiments, noting, “Criminal prosecution and lengthy prison terms await those who defraud the tax system. IRS Criminal Investigation special agents are highly skilled at following the money to find those who steal from the public treasury.” Sentencing hearings for both Naja and Sturgeon are scheduled for the coming months, with each facing up to 20 years in federal prison and substantial fines.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) with assistance from the Montgomery Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Megan A. Kirkpatrick and Melanie E. Corbett are handling the prosecution.
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Key Facts
- State: Alabama
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes|Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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