Ramon Luina III, 42, of Chesterfield, MO, has pleaded guilty to mail fraud in connection with the embezzlement of approximately $2.8 million from CMS Communications Inc.
The crime occurred in Missouri, with Luina writing checks from CMS to himself and other entities for personal benefits such as the construction of his lake house, vehicles for private use, professional services, rent for other business ventures not related to CMS, vacations, and credit card payments.
Luna used CMS funds, via wire transfers and ACH payments, to make payments to his personal credit cards and invoices related to construction on his lake house. He also created fictitious vendors and listed these companies as consultants to CMS, before directing payments, for fictitious work, to the vendors as another route to direct funds from CMS to Luina.
In addition, Luina fraudulently increased his payroll salary which was received via direct deposit. This, in turn, falsely inflated his 401k match and bonuses. Additionally, Luina falsely took partnership disbursements for CMS Partnership although he never completed the process of partnership.
Luina appeared today before United States District Judge John A. Ross. Sentencing is set for November 2, 2017. Mail fraud carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and/or fines up to $250,000.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Dianna Collins is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Luna’s actions led to the embezzlement of over $2.8 million from CMS for his personal benefit, and the benefit of others, during the relevant timeframe.
With a guilty plea, Luina has acknowledged his role in the mail fraud scheme and faces the possibility of a 20-year prison sentence and/or fines up to $250,000. The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines will be used to determine the actual sentence.
Key Facts
- State: Missouri
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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