Fiona Lorraine Walters, 50, of Newburgh, New York, has pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering. Walters admitted her involvement in a multi-year scheme that defrauded victims, many of whom were elderly, out of over $300,000. Her sentencing is scheduled for September 23, 2024, before United States District Judge Scott M. Rash.
The fraudulent activities took place between July 5, 2016, and August 15, 2020. During this period, Walters, along with her co-conspirators, laundered the illicit funds through her and her family members’ bank accounts. The victims were deceived into believing they had won a lottery or sweepstakes and were required to pay fees associated with their supposed winnings. Instead, Walters and her associates kept the money, and no winnings were ever distributed.
A conviction for Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering carries severe penalties. Walters faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the laundered funds, whichever is greater, and a term of three years supervised release.
This case was prosecuted under the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative, highlighting the government’s commitment to protecting elderly citizens from financial fraud. The National Elder Fraud Hotline (1-833-FRAUD-11 or 1-833-372-8311) is available to assist victims aged 60 and older. Staffed by professionals, the hotline provides personalized support, helping victims report crimes, recover losses, and receive resources and referrals.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Sue Feldmeier of the District of Arizona, Tucson, is leading the prosecution. The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation, demonstrating the collaborative efforts of federal agencies in bringing perpetrators of financial crimes to justice.
