After using fictitious movie prop money to defraud online merchants, a Missouri guy left with expensive automobiles, Air Jordans, and other items.#St. Louis, Missouri, #News, #Crime
Missouri’s St. LouisA Missourian was able to deceive online vendors into taking counterfeit money in exchange for more than $229,000 worth of goods, vehicles, and even pricey sneakers. Aaron Montgomery, 41, used movie prop money to carry out the illegal transactions in a cunning ruse. Montgomery entered a guilty plea on Tuesday, according to the Eastern District of Missouri U.S. Attorney’s Office. When the scam was uncovered, he drove off with the products after persuading the vendors to accept the phony money, leaving them in disbelief.
How the Scam Worked
Montgomery started the scam in August 2022 by contacting internet sellers of vehicles and other goods.
He set up meetings with the dealers and negotiated rates, frequently in places like banks where the fake currency would appear more authentic.
When Montgomery arrived at the meeting location, he paid with bundles of phony banknotes that looked like actual money from the movie. He was able to take five pairs of Air Jordans, audio equipment, and cars, among other things.
Montgomery used his smooth-talking style to avoid arousing suspicion and fully exploited the seller’s faith. He left with stuff worth thousands of dollars, his hands full with counterfeit currency.
Interstate Trafficking of Stolen Property
The scope of Montgomery’s deception extended beyond Missouri. He moved stolen automobiles over state lines, removing SUVs, trucks, and cars from Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee, among other places. Multiple federal accusations, including wire fraud and interstate trafficking of stolen vehicles, resulted from his capacity to carry stolen products between states.
Montgomery probably intended to sell or retain the stolen goods when each car was driven back to Missouri. Some sellers were not aware of the swindle until long after Montgomery had left, and the stolen cars alone accounted for a sizable amount of the entire value.
Legal Consequences and Future Sentencing
Montgomery faces severe legal repercussions after entering guilty pleas to three counts of wire fraud and four counts of interstate transportation of stolen vehicles.
A 51-month prison term and complete compensation to all victims of his crimes have been recommended by the prosecution and defense. The sentence hearing for Montgomery is set on May 22, 2025.
Associated Subjects: Crime, Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, fraudulent schemes, and Tennessee
We appreciate your input!Was this article thought-provoking, inspirational, or educational to you? Join the conversation by leaving a comment below. We value your feedback and eagerly await your response!
