Ryan Clark, Access Device Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft, Louisiana 2021

A New Orleans man has been sentenced to 42 months in prison for his role in selling fake Louisiana drivers’ licenses.

According to court documents, Ryan Clark, 35, of New Orleans, was sentenced on October 13, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk for conspiracy to commit access device fraud and aggravated identity theft (count 1) and aggravated identity theft (count 3).

The defendant was arrested after an investigation initiated by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the United States Secret Service. Clark and others created and sold fake Louisiana drivers’ licenses with the names and dates of birth of real persons who were victims of identity theft.

Using the fake licenses, Clark facilitated the sale of at least six motor vehicles from several local dealerships. The fraudsters would use the stolen identities and the fake licenses to buy high-end used cars. No money was ever paid, and the loans went into default.

In addition to incarceration, Clark was sentenced to three years of supervised release and payment of a mandatory $200 special assessment fee. His self-surrender date is set for January 3, 2022, and a restitution hearing was set for January 5, 2022.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans praised the agencies that contributed to this indictment, which represents a coordinated effort of federal and state law enforcement authorities within the United States Secret Service Louisiana Cyber Fraud Task Force (CFTF). He also thanked the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office for their assistance.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward J. Rivera. The defendant’s crimes were uncovered through a joint investigation by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the United States Secret Service.

Related Federal Cases