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Crime on the Rise: Willie May Ford Sentenced for Access Device Fraud
Montgomery, Alabama – In a shocking turn of events, Willie May Ford, 62, of Lamar, South Carolina, was sentenced to 51 months in prison for her role in a brazen tax fraud scheme.
Ford pleaded guilty to one count of access device fraud on July 29, 2016. The evidence collected during the investigation revealed that Ford and another individual used counterfeit travelers checks to purchase items at two separate stores in Opelika, Alabama.
On July 27, 2013, officers with the Auburn, Alabama, Police Department met with employees at a retail establishment regarding counterfeit travelers checks that had been passed at the store. The investigation led to the seizure of numerous traveler’s checks, credit and debit cards, and pieces of personal identifying information from the vehicle that Ford had traveled in to Alabama.
After further investigation, authorities discovered that the personal information of over 400 individuals was used to file fraudulent federal income tax returns. The Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, United States Secret Service, and the Auburn, Alabama, Police Department worked tirelessly to bring Ford to justice.
“Willie Ford learned the hard way that IRS-Criminal Investigation has an unwavering pursuit to expose and investigate those who choose to commit identity theft and refund fraud,” stated Special Agent in Charge Veronica F. Hyman-Pillot.
“Identity theft and tax fraud is costing the American taxpayers millions each year,” stated U.S Attorney George L. Beck, Jr. “I am proud of the work my office is doing with our partnering law enforcement agencies to seek out these criminals and protect our citizens.”
Ford was also sentenced to a three-year term of supervised release following her period of imprisonment and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,672,971.
Key Facts
- State: Alabama
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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