Jose A. Rodriguez, a 63-year-old resident of Bronx, New York, has been sentenced to 32 months in prison for bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. The sentencing took place on January 29, 2025, under the jurisdiction of United States District Court Judge Matthew W. Brann.
Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus reported that in December 2023, Rodriguez was brought from New York to Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania by unidentified individuals. These individuals provided him with false identifications and directed him to withdraw funds from victim bank accounts. In return for his actions, Rodriguez received a continuous supply of drugs.
Rodriguez executed seven fraudulent withdrawals across various financial institutions located in Lycoming, Tioga, and Centre Counties. He managed to illegally obtain $42,000 before being caught during an attempt to withdraw an additional $8,000.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Secret Service alongside the Lycoming Regional Police Department, the Williamsport Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah R. Lloyd led the prosecution.