“As the leader of the ‘Grinchsters’, Julian Pomales specifically sought out and targeted intoxicated New Yorkers enjoying our borough’s vibrant nightlife,” said District Attorney Bragg. “As illustrated by the variety of cases brought by my Office’s Financial Frauds, Major Economic Crimes, and Cyber Crime Bureaus, identity theft affects New Yorkers of all walks of life. It is one of the most common crimes we see, targeting anyone with a bank account and, increasingly, with a cell phone. I urge New Yorkers to stay vigilant by using strong passwords, monitoring their accounts and reporting suspicious activity. We are here to help: call us at 212-335-8900 if you are a Manhattanite who has been a victim of identity theft or other fraud.”

“As alleged, using aliases and forged passports supposedly issued by four different countries, Nfamoussa Sylla orchestrated a check fraud scheme that netted him more than $100,000,” said District Attorney Bragg. “This investigation is ongoing. This office’s strong tradition of economic crime investigations and prosecutions spans from identity theft to public corruption to counterterrorism and beyond. We will hold accountable those who commit fraud for personal gain.” 

“Ian Mitchell defrauded his friends and associates out of approximately $700,000 by claiming to be from a wealthy, prominent family,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Those who impersonate others to steal hard-earned money will be prosecuted. If you are a victim of financial crime, or know about a financial crime that requires investigation, please call our Financial Frauds Bureau at 212-335-8900.” 

“As alleged, Sean Mescall posed as a fake attorney to take advantage of clients who relied on him for what they thought was legitimate legal assistance,” said District Attorney Bragg. “The defendant allegedly exploited victims who entrusted him by stealing their hard-earned money for a wide range of supposed legal services. This is an ongoing investigation. Please call our Financial Frauds Bureau at 212-335-8900 if you may be a victim.” 

“Manashe Sezanayev is facing accountability for stealing diamonds from merchants and replacing them with fake stones,” said District Attorney Bragg. “We will continue to prosecute those who take advantage of consumers and conduct business deals in a dishonest manner.”