A federal jury in New Mexico has convicted Robert Haack of wire fraud, mail fraud, and violating the Indian Arts and Crafts Act. The conviction comes after a four-day trial that concluded with approximately four hours of jury deliberation. Haack was found guilty of selling counterfeit jewelry attributed to Charles Loloma, a renowned Native American jeweler, on eBay.
Charles Loloma's work is highly valued, often featured in galleries and museums across the southwest, with authentic pieces fetching tens of thousands of dollars. Evidence presented at trial showed that Haack created fake Loloma jewelry in his California home and sold them for several thousand dollars each online. Undercover federal agents purchased two pieces from him on eBay for analysis.
Verma Nequatewa, Loloma's niece and a jeweler herself, testified that the pieces bought by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Agents were counterfeit. Additional evidence seized from Haack's home included raw materials for jewelry-making, unfinished pieces styled like Loloma's work, engraving tools hidden in a boot, practice signatures on metal shards, and design sketches.
The scheme reportedly generated over $400,000 from sales of fake jewelry over several years. It caused harm not only to defrauded buyers but also to Loloma's legacy and the wider Native American art community.
U.S Attorney Uballez stated: “We will protect the sacred cultural heritage and unique history of authentic Native American artistry as well as consumers from scammers.”
Doug Ault from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service emphasized: “Robert Haack’s counterfeit operation significantly impacted the Native American art and craft marketplace.” He added that art fraud exploits consumers while undermining the economic and cultural livelihood of Native American artists and tribes.
Meridith Stanton from the Indian Arts and Crafts Board remarked: “Counterfeit Indian art – like Robert Haack’s jewelry...tears at the very fabric of Indian culture.” She noted that such actions undermine consumer confidence in the market.
Following his conviction, Haack remains under conditions of release pending sentencing where he faces up to 20 years in prison. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife Office of Law Enforcement with assistance from the Indian Arts and Crafts Board. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting it.