Bank Fraud Rocks Abbeville Community
A Maurice man has been caught in a web of deceit, submitting false receipts to obtain over $1.6 million from an Abbeville bank. Richard J. Viator Jr., 52, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud in a U.S. District Court.
According to the guilty plea, Viator was the owner/president of Safety Analysis Team Inc., an oilfield company based in Abbeville. To access a $2 million revolving line of credit at the Abbeville bank, Viator was required to submit receipts. Between November 4, 2010 and February 23, 2011, Viator received 11 draws or payments totaling $1,673,304.85 based on false and fraudulent invoices.
The invoices purported to be accounts receivable from various companies for work performed by Safety Analysis Team. However, the claims were entirely fabricated, making them invalid for reimbursement. This egregious act of bank fraud has left many wondering how such a scheme could go undetected for so long.
The FBI conducted the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jamilla A. Bynog and Kelly P. Uebinger are prosecuting the case. Viator faces up to 30 years in prison, five years of supervised release, restitution, and a $1 million fine.
U.S. District Judge Dee D. Drell has scheduled the sentencing hearing for April 10, 2018. The community is eagerly awaiting the outcome of this case, hoping that justice will be served.
As this case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of financial transparency and the severe consequences of fraudulent activities. We will continue to follow this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Richard J. Viator Jr.’s actions have left a trail of financial devastation in his wake. As the community comes to terms with the scope of this fraud, it is clear that the consequences of his actions will be felt for years to come.
Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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