Nine indicted in multi-state scheme to launder $20 million in Internet fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Federal prosecutors have unsealed an indictment charging nine people with operating a money laundering ring responsible for laundering millions of dollars in Internet fraud schemes, including business email compromise scams. The arrests, coordinated across three jurisdictions, mark a significant step in dismantling the alleged criminal enterprise.

The indictment alleges that the organization, active since November 2016, was structured with “recruiters” or “herders” who enlisted “money mules” to transfer the proceeds of fraudulent activities. These funds, obtained through scams targeting companies and individuals in the United States and internationally, were funneled through shell companies and front businesses to conceal their origins and financially benefit the group.

Defendants—Samson A. Omoniyi, 43, of Houston; Misha L. Cooper, 50, of Murfreesboro, Tenn.; Robert A. Cooper, 66, of Murfreesboro; Carlesha L. Perry, 36, of Houston; Whitney D. Bardley, 30, of Florissant, Mo.; Lauren O. Guidry, 32, of Houston; Caira Y. Osby, 44, of Houston; Dazai S. Harris, 34, of Murfreesboro; and Edward D. Peebles, 35, of Murfreesboro — are charged with conspiracy to engage in money laundering. Federal authorities allege the organization laundered more than $20 million in illicit proceeds.

The FBI’s Nashville Bureau, Salt Lake City Bureau, and Boise Resident Agency led the investigation, with assistance from the FBI’s Forensic Accounting Support Team. “The defendants are alleged to have participated in a sophisticated scheme to transfer millions of dollars in fraud proceeds through an intricate web of accomplices and shell companies,” said Senior Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Department’s Criminal Division of Justice.

If convicted, the defendants each face up to 20 years in federal prison. The sentences will be determined by a federal district court judge, taking into account statutory guidelines and sentencing factors.