A major identity theft and fraud ring based in Columbia has led to the federal conviction of ten individuals involved in schemes spanning multiple states, including South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, Texas, Georgia, Virginia, Missouri, and New York. This criminal operation, active from July 2020 through August 2023, used stolen personal information sourced from the dark web to manufacture fraudulent documents and commit various financial crimes.
Key players in the operation included:
- Ronda Weston of Columbia, who orchestrated much of the scheme, pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft related to Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. She faces up to 20 years in prison, additional mandatory time, asset forfeiture, and restitution.
- Kashon Harrison of Elgin and Michael Terrance Butler of Columbia, among others, also face lengthy sentences for wire fraud and identity theft offenses.
- Monique Sherrie Corbett, sentenced to two years in prison and ordered to pay over $37,000 in restitution, was among the first sentenced.
The ring engaged in various fraudulent activities, including luxury vehicle purchases, title loans, and residential rentals. Agents recovered extensive evidence, including a ledger listing 151 identity theft victims, fraudulent financial documents, and luxury vehicles. Some members additionally exploited PPP loans intended for COVID-19 relief.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, and other local law enforcement, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott B. Daniels leading the prosecution. Sentencing for the remaining defendants is forthcoming.
