SEVENTH MEMBER OF COUNTERFEIT TRAVELERS CHEQUE RING SENTENCED TO PRISON
Ring members passed more than $300,000 in counterfeit cheques across several states
DOLLY ANN COOPER, 43, of Kent, Washington was sentenced to 46 months in prison and three years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Make and Pass False and Fictitious Securities, and Failure to Appear for Trial. COOPER is the last of seven defendants, KEITH LAMONT SIMS, 36, YVETTE RENEA BAILEY, 36, TONY TOBUBA 32, all of Seattle, ERIC McGOWAN, 26, of Federal Way, MARK CARILLO of Des Moines and CRYSTAL STAUDT, 21, of Stanwood, to be sentenced in the case. COOPER was sentenced to 40 months for passing the counterfeit cheques, and an additional six months for failing to appear for a court hearing in October 2005. Sentences for the other participants ranged between five years probation and five years in prison.
COOPER, BAILEY and SIMS were the leaders of an extensive conspiracy that printed and cashed more than $300,000 worth of counterfeit travelers cheques across several states. TOBUBA printed the cheques for the conspirators. COOPER recruited and supervised many of the people who cashed the counterfeit checks. Those cashing the cheques were trained by COOPER, SIMS and BAILEY to dress nicely and purchase items of low value to get the maximum amount of legitimate currency in return for the phoney $100 travelers cheques. COOPER and others convicted in the case are collectively responsible for approximately $300,000 in restitution.
COOPER has a lengthy criminal history for petty offenses, and has struggled with drug addiction. U.S. District Judge Marsha J. Pechman recommended that COOPER complete a special 500 hour drug treatment program while incarcerated in federal prison. “Drugs have played a destructive role in your life,” Judge Pechman told COOPER. Judge Pechman urged COOPER to learn job skills and work hard to battle her addiction while incarcerated so that she can be a role model for her children when she is released.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Vince Lombardi.
For additional information please contact Emily Langlie, Public Affairs Officer for the United States Attorney’s Office, at (206) 553-4110.
