A couple from West Michigan has been found guilty of stealing over $3 million from nearly 40 customers. They used various tricks to take people’s money and identities, leaving many victims in financial trouble. This serious case shows how financial crimes can harm communities and why it is important to stop fraudsters.
Who Are the Convicted Couple?
Bridget Bureau and Gregory Hite, both 39 years old, owned multiple businesses in West Michigan. These included Great Lakes Trailer Manufacturing, Hites RV, GLR Transport, and Alpine Trailer Sales. They ran these businesses from 2016 to 2020, using them to carry out illegal activities.
How Did They Steal the Money?
The couple committed fraud by:
- Stealing Identities: They took personal information from unsuspecting people.
- Getting Fake Loans: Using the stolen identities, they obtained loans worth over $5.4 million.
- Hiding Their Actions: They created many companies (LLCs) to cover up their crimes.
- Impersonating Victims: They even pretended to be victims during phone calls with other victims.
Eventually, the scam fell apart when they ran out of money. Lenders discovered the fraud and demanded compensation for the victims.
What Was Their Punishment?
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan confirmed their sentences:
- Bridget Bureau: Sentenced to over 4 years in prison.
- Gregory Hite: Sentenced to 12.5 years in prison.
Both were ordered to repay nearly $2 million to the victims.
Why Is This Case Important?
This case highlights how criminals can use clever tricks, not just weapons, to harm people. U.S. Attorney Mark Totten emphasized the importance of protecting communities from financial crimes and holding fraudsters accountable.
FAQs
1. What crimes were Bridget and Gregory convicted of?
They were convicted of fraud, stealing identities, and illegally obtaining over $5.4 million through fake loans.
2. What businesses did they use for the fraud?
Their businesses included Great Lakes Trailer Manufacturing, Hites RV, GLR Transport, and Alpine Trailer Sales.
3. How did they hide their illegal activities?
They used multiple LLCs to make it harder for authorities to trace their actions.
4. What penalties did they face?
Bridget received over 4 years in prison, while Gregory got 12.5 years. They must also repay nearly $2 million.
5. Why is this case significant?
It shows that financial fraud can be just as harmful as violent crimes and stresses the importance of preventing and punishing such activities.
