A federal court has sentenced a woman from Miramar to 30 months in prison, marking a significant development in a massive money-laundering conspiracy linked to romance scams.
Cristine Petitfrere, a 30-year-old resident of Miramar, has confessed to her involvement in laundering over $2.7 million acquired through fraudulent activities. Her actions were part of a larger scheme that targeted unsuspecting victims across the United States through online romance scams. These scams involved creating fake personal relationships with victims to manipulate them into sending money under false pretenses, such as fabricated emergencies or phony investment opportunities.
Federal prosecutors have detailed how Petitfrere facilitated the transfer of money from these victims to international partners in crime while securing a portion for her own gain. A statement from the United States Department of Justice outlines her role in this elaborate network that preyed on vulnerable individuals.
After pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering in September 2024, Petitfrere has been mandated not only to serve a prison sentence but also to forfeit $203,815.59, which represents her personal earnings from this criminal endeavor. This case highlights the ongoing challenges authorities face in tackling sophisticated financial crimes that leverage the anonymity and reach of the internet.
This sentence serves as a sobering reminder of the pervasive nature of online scams and the importance of vigilance in digital interactions. While justice has been served in this instance, it underscores the continued threat posed by cybercriminals who exploit trust for financial gain.
Source: Wsvn
