South Amboy Bookkeeper Gets Six Years for $1.7M Fraud

Newark, N.J. – A ruthless scheme masterminded by a South Amboy bookkeeper has landed her behind bars for 72 months. Tammy L. Martinez, 49, was sentenced today for orchestrating a $1.7 million bank fraud scheme that spanned over five years.

The fraudulent activities were carried out while serving as an office manager and bookkeeper for a New Jersey-based company from January 2014 to March 2019. Martinez exploited her position to issue checks made payable to herself or cash, forging her manager’s signature. The brazen scheme resulted in an estimated $1.78 million in losses.

Today, U.S. District Judge Claire C. Cecchi imposed the harsh sentence via videoconference. In addition to prison time, Martinez was sentenced to five years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution of $1.78 million.

Rachael A. Honig, Acting U.S. Attorney, praised the efforts of special agents from the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Newark Police Department in leading the investigation that led to today’s sentencing.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamel Semper represents the government in this case, handling the Organized Crimes and Gangs Unit.

Tammy L. Martinez’s sentence sends a chilling message: even behind the desk, corruption can lead to severe consequences. The justice system has once again demonstrated its commitment to holding those who defraud the public accountable for their actions.