In a classic case of digital deception, Rashell Ortiz, a 23-year-old from Grove City, Ohio, has been hit with a 20-month prison sentence for running an advance-fee fraud that scammed hundreds. Posing as someone eager to offload luxury goods post-divorce, Ortiz, along with her accomplice, Orvil Cataquet Jr., ensnared victims on online marketplaces, promising deep discounts on high-end handbags. The catch? Buyers were swindled after payments were transferred, and the promised goods never arrived.
Ortiz's trial, as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office, revealed the scheme spanned from October 2019 to November 2021. Using platforms like Poshmark and Offer Up, the duo reeled in victims by requesting payment through apps such as Zelle and Venmo, bypassing platform securities. The result: more than 300 deceived individuals and an ill-gotten $130,225 to fund Ortiz and Cataquet Jr.'s lifestyle.
While Ortiz faces justice with her prison term, supervised release, and a five-figure restitution, Cataquet Jr. had previously pleaded guilty to wire fraud. His plea resulted in a 14-month prison sentence and a supervised release period similar in length. Additionally, he's on the hook for a higher restitution amount to the tune of $156,074.
The investigative efforts of the FBI Philadelphia's Newtown Square Resident Agency, along with Assistant United States Attorneys Meghan Claiborne and Sarah Wolfe, brought the couple's fraudulent activities to light. The full details of Ortiz's indictment in January 2024, followed by conviction in December, showcase a premeditated ploy to exploit the aspirational allure of luxury—turning dreams of designer deals into financial nightmares.
