Philadelphia Man Charged in Fraud on Sheriff’s Office

PHILADELPHIA—An information was filed today against Paul Roane, 40, of Philadelphia, charging him with conspiracy to commit wire fraud in a scheme to defraud the Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office, announced United States Attorney Zane David Memeger.

According to the indictment, Roane agreed to receive a check fraudulently made payable to him and written on the bank account of the Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office. The indictment charges that in September 2009, Roane received the fraudulent check in the amount of $21,673.32. Roane deposited the check into his bank account, withdrew proceeds of the check, and shared the proceeds with his co-conspirators, including Richard Bell, who is charged elsewhere.

If convicted, Roane faces an advisory sentencing guideline range of approximately 4 to 10 months in prison.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, and the City of Philadelphia Office of Inspector General. The City of Philadelphia Office of the Controller also assisted in the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah L. Grieb and Christopher Diviny.

An indictment or information is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.