The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York has unveiled a significant bank fraud conspiracy that has rocked the Albany area. On June 25, 2026, it was announced that 13 individuals have been indicted in a scheme that involved the theft of over $1 million in checks. This case highlights the intricate web of fraud that can emerge when trust is betrayed and systems are exploited.
The indictment, unsealed on June 16, 2026, details a 14-count charges against the defendants, who are accused of using stolen, forged, and counterfeit checks to defraud financial institutions across the country. The mastermind behind this operation, Jahquel Robertson, allegedly bribed a U.S. Postal Service employee to steal checks mailed to or sent by individuals and businesses in the Northern District.
The Alleged Scheme and Its Reach
The defendants are accused of utilizing personal and banking information from willing participants to attempt fraudulent deposits. The indictment alleges a range of crimes, including bribery of a public official, receipt of stolen mail, money laundering, use of fraudulent financial instruments, and aggravated identity theft. However, not every defendant is accused of every charge.
The bank fraud conspiracy charge against all defendants carries a maximum of 30 years in prison, a maximum $1 million fine, and up to five years of supervised release. Charges against Robertson, Anisa Marie Figueroa, Tyler Whittingham, and Emahnee Shelton also include aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory minimum of two years in prison.
The Defendants and Their Charges
The individuals charged in this conspiracy include:
- Jahquel Robertson aka “Jolly”, 31, Albany
- Nathaniel Williams, 35, New York City
- Anisa Marie Figueroa, 35, Albany
- Tyler Whittingham, 30, New York City
- Mishak Sam-Hinton, 29, Newark, New Jersey
- Britani Williams, 26, North Adams, Massachusetts
- Kedar Morton, 35, Albany
- Ray Hernandez, 28, Albany
- Slyvia Harris Thomas, 22, Troy
- Ladezma Scurry, 32, Schenectady
- Raheen Williams, 30, Albany
- Kaitlyn Thompson, 38, Albany
- Emahnee Shelton, 28, Schenectady
The Role of Law Enforcement
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone emphasized the severity of the charges, stating, “These charges describe a far-reaching bank fraud scheme that diverted more than a million dollars in stolen checks and victimized honest residents, businesses, and financial institutions that sustain our communities.” Patrone reiterated HSI Albany’s commitment to uncovering and disrupting fraud schemes that prey on hardworking people and exploit the banking and mail systems for personal gain.
Special Agent in Charge of the Northeast Area Field Office USPS-OIG, Matthew M. Modafferi, highlighted the seriousness of the allegations involving mail theft and check fraud. “Postal Service employees hold positions of public trust, and allegations involving mail theft, check fraud, or bribery are taken seriously,” Modafferi said. He expressed appreciation for the continued partnership of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, HSI, and the New York State Police in protecting the integrity of the U.S. Mail and holding those who exploit it accountable.
The Impact on the Community
The fallout from this conspiracy extends beyond the immediate financial losses. The scheme has eroded trust in both the banking and postal systems, which are vital to the functioning of any community. The defendants’ actions have not only affected individual victims but also undermined the confidence that businesses and residents place in these institutions.
As the case moves forward, the community watches closely, hoping for justice and a restoration of trust. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, HSI, and the New York State Police remain committed to their investigation, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need for robust systems to prevent and detect such fraudulent activities.
