Three people have been indicted in Gwinnett County for racketeering after they allegedly participated in multiple fraud schemes.
According to a press release from Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr, Ugochinyere Anazodo, Dominique Beaulieu and Willy Obena were all charged with two counts of racketeering.
The suspects allegedly participated in a criminal enterprise with the purpose of obtaining and laundering the stolen proceeds of cyber fraud schemes. The three allegedly engaged in a Business Email Compromise scam targeting the Georgia Department of Transportation and a romance scam targeting a private citizen.
“This indictment is just the latest in our ongoing efforts to combat cybercrime in our state,” Carr said. “Each day, we continue to actively pursue those who engage in cyber fraud schemes as a means to steal from Georgia businesses or consumers. We also know that preparation is key, and we would encourage all Georgians to learn how to recognize and report online fraud so you can better protect your data, network and devices.”
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Office of the Inspector General investigated the case.
“Cyber fraud has become an increasing problem,” said GBI Director Mike Register. “With the advancement of technology, criminals are finding more ways to steal hardworking Georgian’s assets. We will continue to work with our partners to ensure that these defendants are brought to justice.”
The case was referred to the Office of the Attorney General by the Georgia Cyber Fraud Task Force following a victim report submitted to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.
The Attorney General's Public Integrity and White Collar Crime Unit presented evidence to a Gwinnett County Grand Jury, resulting in the indictment of all three suspects on Feb. 15.
A full list of their charges is as follows:
Ugochinyere Anazodo:
- Two counts of racketeering
- One count of theft by taking
- One count of money laundering
Dominique Beaulieu:
- Two counts of racketeering
Willy Obena:
- Two counts of racketeering
