Roxanne Williams, Passport Fraud, New York 2024

Roxanne Williams, a 31-year-old Jamaican national, has pleaded guilty to making false statements in connection with a fraudulent passport application and aggravated identity theft. She faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 for the false statement charges, which will be imposed consecutive to a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison for the aggravated identity theft.

The crime was uncovered by Special Agents of the United States Department of State, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Roy Stillman. In July 2012, Williams submitted an application for a United States Passport claiming to be a United States citizen and using the name of an unwitting person. She included copies of the other person’s birth certificate, social security card, and Florida driver’s license as part of the application.

An alert passport officer noticed inconsistencies in the application, which led to an investigation. When questioned by investigators, Williams initially maintained her fraudulent persona, but later admitted the fraud when a fingerprint check revealed her true identity and that there were warrants for her arrest in New York City and New Jersey for credit card fraud offenses.

During the investigation, a search of Williams’ vehicle revealed numerous credit cards and identity documents issued in the names of many other persons, along with a notebook containing personal information regarding the individuals whose names appeared on the credit cards.

The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Rogowski, who stated that the plea is the culmination of an extensive investigation. Sentencing is scheduled for June 18, 2014, before Chief Judge William M. Skretny.

Williams’ scheme has raised concerns about the vulnerability of the U.S. passport application process to identity theft and fraud. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of verifying the authenticity of identity documents and the consequences of submitting false information.

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging individuals who may have been victimized by Williams to come forward and report any suspicious activity. The case is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of identity theft and the importance of protecting oneself from such crimes.

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