Crypto Fraudster Antonia Hernandez Sentenced to 30 Months for Forcount Scam

Antonia Perez Hernandez, a key figure in the notorious Forcount Ponzi scheme, has been sentenced to 30 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Analisa Torres. Hernandez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, part of a scam that defrauded investors of approximately $8.4 million from 2017 to 2021.

• Antonia Perez Hernandez sentenced to 30 months for Forcount Ponzi scheme.
• Hernandez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
• Forcount defrauded investors of $8.4 million from 2017 to 2021.
• Promised to double investments in six months but operated as a Ponzi scheme.
• Introduced “Mindexcoin” token to mitigate complaints.

The Forcount scheme, based in Tampa, lured investors with the promise of doubling their money within six months. Instead, it operated as a classic Ponzi scheme, using new investor funds to pay returns to earlier investors. A Ponzi scheme is a type of fraud where returns are paid to earlier investors using the investments of more recent investors, with no genuine business operations.

In an attempt to quell complaints, Hernandez and her accomplices introduced “Mindexcoin,” a fake cryptocurrency created to further deceive investors. They claimed the value of Mindexcoin would soar, a tactic to inject liquidity into the scam and keep the deception alive. This “special type of digital currency created by the scammers” was nothing more than another layer of lies.

The sentencing of Hernandez marks a significant step towards justice for the victims of the Forcount scam. Many victims, who lost their life savings, shared their harrowing experiences during the sentencing. One victim recounted how the scam destroyed their retirement plans and strained family relationships, highlighting the severe personal impact.

Juan Tacuri, another key conspirator, received a 20-year sentence on October 15, 2024, and was ordered to forfeit $3.6 million. Nestor Nuñez was sentenced to four years. Francisley Da Silva, the founder of Forcount, remains in custody in Brazil, underscoring the international dimension of the scam.

U.S. District Judge Analisa Torres, known for her ruling in the SEC vs. Ripple Labs case, presided over Hernandez’s sentencing. Judge Torres remarked,

“While the accused was not the mastermind, she played a key role in promoting the worthless token to unsuspecting investors.”

Hernandez expressed remorse for her actions and apologized to those affected by the scam.

The Forcount case reflects increasing regulatory scrutiny and legal action against cryptocurrency-related frauds. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York has been actively pursuing such cases, sending a clear message to cryptocurrency scammers that they will be held accountable. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams emphasized this point, stating,

“Stealing is stealing, even when dressed up in the jargon of cryptocurrency.”

HSI Special Agent in Charge Ivan J. Arvelo also highlighted the deceptive tactics used by the scammers, noting,

“With high end clothes and cars, these individuals are alleged to have presented a life of luxury to potential investors, but instead of a lucrative investment opportunity, the victims were fleeced of their savings and left with nothing to show for it.”

The Forcount scam serves as a stark reminder of the risks lurking in the crypto world, where the promise of high returns can often mask fraudulent schemes. It’s a cautionary tale that underscores the need for vigilance in the crypto space to protect against similar scams. While the potential for innovation and financial freedom in this space is undeniable, it is equally important to remain informed and proactive in combating frauds.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office has a dedicated Victim/Witness Unit to support those affected by the Forcount and similar schemes. Victims can seek assistance and report suspicious activities to help prevent future scams.

Here are some key takeaways and questions for our readers:

• What was the nature of the Forcount scam?

  The Forcount scam was a Ponzi scheme that falsely presented itself as a legitimate crypto trading and mining company, promising to double investors’ money within six months. It used funds from new investors to pay returns to earlier investors, without engaging in any real business operations.

• How were investors misled by the Forcount scheme?

  Investors were misled through a fake online portal that showed growing funds and through the introduction of “Mindexcoin,” with false claims about its future value. The scheme also promised unrealistic returns and operated without legitimate business activities.

• What was the impact on the victims of the Forcount scam?

  Victims suffered significant financial losses, including life savings and retirement funds, leading to emotional distress and even the breakdown of marriages. Some victims shared their experiences during the sentencing, highlighting the severe personal impact.

• What were the sentences given to the co-conspirators in the Forcount scam?

  Juan Tacuri received a 20-year sentence and was ordered to forfeit $3.6 million. Nestor Nuñez was sentenced to four years. Antonia Perez Hernandez was sentenced to 30 months.

• What is the current status of Francisley Da Silva?

  Francisley Da Silva, the founder of Forcount, remains in custody in Brazil.

The Forcount scam serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in the crypto world. While the potential for innovation and financial freedom is immense, it’s crucial to remain informed and proactive in combating frauds to protect the integrity and potential of cryptocurrencies.