⏱ 2 min read
In a brazen scheme, five individuals in Charleston, South Carolina, convinced over 100 victims – many of them elderly – that they had won cash prizes in a sweepstakes. The scammers, including Xavier Gordon, 25, Warner Gordon, 27, Kevin Milton Simpson, 30, Tashagae Narcia Leslie, 25, and Kemar Christopher Edwards, 28, would then demand that the victims pay taxes and fees before receiving their winnings, resulting in a cumulative loss of at least $3.5 million.
The indictment alleges that the defendants used the mail and wire transfers to receive the money, which they then laundered and sent to individuals in Jamaica. The scheme is a stark reminder of the dangers of financial fraud targeting vulnerable populations.
Xavier Gordon faces a maximum penalty of 30 years’ imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Warner Gordon also faces 30 years in prison, a $500,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. The other defendants face similar charges and penalties.
The investigation and prosecution of this case highlight the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies in combating financial fraud. As the defendants await their fate, the victims of the sweepstakes scam are left to pick up the pieces and rebuild their lives.
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📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: South Carolina
- Location: SC
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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