### Indian National Admits to $9 Million Fraud Scheme Involving Cell Phones
A 36-year-old Indian national residing in New Jersey has admitted to defrauding telephone providers and insurance companies of over $9 million by using stolen and fake identities. Sandeep Bengera orchestrated this elaborate scheme from 2013 to 2019, filing false claims for replacement cell phones which were then resold outside the United States.
#### Details of the Scheme
According to a press release from the New Jersey Attorney's office, Bengera used various aliases, including Vishal Rawal, Vihaan Seth, and Sagar Sharma, to carry out his fraudulent activities. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and conspiracy to commit interstate transfer of stolen property in front of US District Judge Madeline Cox Arleo.
The fraudulent operation involved:
- **Stolen and Fake Identities**: Bengera and his co-conspirators used these identities to file false claims for lost, stolen, or damaged cell phones.
- **Replacement Devices**: The fraudulently obtained replacement devices were then resold outside the US, primarily to markets where such devices fetch high prices.
- **Network of Mailboxes and Storage Units**: The conspirators maintained numerous mailboxes and storage units across the US, particularly in New Jersey, to receive and store the devices before their resale.
#### Co-Conspirators
The scheme involved several co-conspirators:
- **Dhananjay Pretap Singh**: Resided in Delhi, India.
- **Parag Bhavsar**: Resided in Newark, Delaware.
Although neither Singh nor Bhavsar has been charged in this indictment, court documents indicate their involvement in the scheme.
#### Legal Consequences
Sandeep Bengera faces significant penalties for his crimes:
- **Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud**: Carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gain or loss from the offense.
- **Conspiracy to Commit Interstate Transfer of Stolen Property**: Carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gain or loss from the offense.
The sentencing for Sandeep Bengera is scheduled for October 10, 2024.
### Summary
This case highlights the complexities and international scope of modern fraud schemes. Sandeep Bengera's actions not only defrauded companies of millions of dollars but also showcased the vulnerabilities in the systems used by telephone providers and insurance companies. As the legal process unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent verification processes and the ongoing battle against sophisticated fraudulent activities.
