FARGO, N.D. (AP) - A North Dakota man accused of masterminding identity theft and fraud schemes has pleaded guilty in federal court.
Chude Umeh, of Fargo, is charged with more than a dozen counts, including conspiracy, bank fraud, mail fraud, and aggravated identity theft. He pleaded guilty to a half-dozen counts.
In one scheme, authorities say people were promised money for installing advertising wrapping on their cars. The victims were told they would receive a check in the mail and in turn needed to send money to someone else for the materials. The perpetrators kept the cash.
Authorities say Umeh and others also filed false federal income tax returns with stolen identifies. The refunds allegedly were directed to Umeh's bank account.
Sentencing is schedule June 18.
A defense attorney was not available for comment.