A man from Palm Springs has admitted guilt in a case involving bank fraud and money laundering. Tony Archuleta-Perkins, 48, previously held positions at two San Francisco law firms, eventually rising to Chief Financial Officer (CFO). During his tenure, he exploited his access to payroll systems and payment platforms to embezzle over $1.3 million.

Court documents reveal that Archuleta-Perkins orchestrated false payments to a non-profit organization he controlled, stealing more than $1.1 million through this method. Additionally, he manipulated the firms' payroll software to add fictitious "one-time reimbursements" and bonus checks for himself, taking over $106,000. He also endorsed a tax refund check intended for one of the firms, depositing it into an account of the non-profit before writing himself a check for the same amount.

In his plea agreement, Archuleta-Perkins acknowledged exploiting the vulnerable condition of one firm's principal who was facing serious health issues. Overall, he admitted responsibility for losses totaling at least $1,321,752.72.

Archuleta-Perkins pleaded guilty to charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1344(2) for bank fraud and 18 U.S.C. § 1957 for money laundering. He could face up to 30 years in prison for bank fraud and an additional 10 years for money laundering upon sentencing by a federal district judge who will consider various guidelines and statutes.

Currently free on a $500,000 bond since June 28, 2024, Archuleta-Perkins is scheduled for sentencing on March 26, 2025. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey along with FBI San Francisco Special Agent in Charge Robert K. Tripp.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nikhil Bhagat with assistance from Madeline Wachs following an FBI investigation.