Shocking $80M Fraud: How Scammers Stole Government Checks & Got Caught!

Federal authorities have arrested six people in connection with a massive fraud scheme that attempted to steal $80 million using fake government checks. Prosecutors say the suspects used stolen identities, forged documents, and even a “Fraud Bible” to pull off the scam.

The scheme, which ran from 2021 to 2025, targeted federal programs designed to provide relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York unsealed the charges this week, revealing the shocking details of how the criminals stole tens of millions of dollars.

How the Fraud Worked

Investigators say the six defendants—Shan Anand, Nosakhare Nobore, Nicholas Pappas, Leonard Ujkic, Solomon Aluko (aka “D1 ReallyRich”), and Jorge Gonzalez—ran an elaborate scheme that allowed them to funnel money into fake accounts.

Here’s how they allegedly did it:

• Fake Bank Accounts: The suspects used stolen or fake identities to open bank accounts. One of them, a bank teller, helped push the fraudulent accounts through the system without raising alarms.

• Forged Government Checks: They deposited counterfeit checks, many of which were linked to IRS tax relief programs and other government assistance.

• Stolen Mail & ID Theft: Some of the checks came from stolen mail, while others were completely fabricated.

• Money Laundering: Once the money was deposited, the suspects quickly moved it to different accounts or withdrew it in cash before banks could catch on.

Authorities say the scammers successfully stole about $50 million before being caught.

What Is the “Fraud Bible”?

During the investigation, authorities found references to a “Fraud Bible” in the suspects’ communications. This document, often shared on the dark web, is a manual that teaches criminals how to commit financial fraud, including credit card scams, identity theft, and bank fraud.

Officials Speak Out

Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky condemned the scheme, saying,
“These defendants stole tens of millions of dollars in COVID relief and other government funds. They exploited programs meant to help struggling Americans. We will hold them fully accountable.”

The Charges & Possible Punishments

Each defendant faces serious charges, including:

• Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud & Bank Fraud – Up to 30 years in prison

• Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering – Up to 20 years in prison

• Identity Theft & Defrauding the U.S. Government – Additional 10+ years

• Aggravated Identity Theft – Mandatory 2-year prison sentence

What This Means for You

This case highlights the growing problem of fraud in government relief programs. With more people relying on digital banking and government aid, criminals are finding new ways to exploit the system.

Authorities are now urging banks and government agencies to strengthen fraud detection systems and prevent similar crimes in the future.

This is an ongoing investigation, and more arrests may follow.

Stay tuned for updates as the case unfolds.