ALBANY, NEW YORK – A gritty federal crime news site brings you the latest from Grimy Times: Shelbra Long, age 58, of Edinburg, Texas, was today sentenced to a year and a day in prison for her role in a decade-long conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud. The charges stem from Long’s involvement in a brazen scheme that saw her apply for admission and financial aid at online colleges across the United States using stolen identities.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Acting Special Agent in Charge Andrew Balceniuk of the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General (ED OIG) – Eastern Regional Office, announced the sentence. Long’s admission to the scheme involved applying for aid under stolen identities, with financial aid being disbursed after which she and her coconspirators would withdraw students from enrollment.
With schools refunding the unutilized financial aid into accounts controlled by the conspirators, Long used some of the funds to pay her utilities. The Department of Education awarded $466,430 in aid through this scheme, with $211,820 being disbursed. Speaking on the sentencing, Acting United States Attorney Sarcone emphasized the Office’s commitment to tackling financial criminals and protecting student aid.
ED OIG Acting Special Agent Balceniuk praised the efforts of law enforcement in shutting down the fraud ring and holding Long accountable for her actions. He also highlighted OIG’s dedication to combating student aid fraud. United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci imposed a 3-year-term of supervised release, restitution of $211,820, and ordered the forfeiture of $52,304.
The case was investigated by ED OIG, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Reiner handling the prosecution.
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes|Cybercrime|Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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