U.S. Attorney Natalie K. Wight | U.S. Department of Justice
A Vancouver, Washington man has been sentenced to federal prison for defrauding customers in a debt consolidation scheme. Javier Antonio Banuelas Urueta, 55, received a 21-month prison sentence and three years of supervised release. Additionally, he must pay $115,750 in restitution to his victims.
Court documents reveal that from April 2019 to April 2024, Banuelas and an accomplice orchestrated a scheme through their company, ConsoliDebt Solutions, LLC. They offered debt consolidation services without the necessary licensing by advertising on radio stations in Oregon and Washington. When contacted by victims, Banuelas would propose monthly payment plans and falsely promise debt reduction or consolidation.
Victims were instructed to deposit funds into ConsoliDebt's accounts or send checks and money orders. To maintain credibility, falsified monthly statements were issued to clients showing account activity and alleged debt settlements. Instead of settling debts as promised, Banuelas used the funds for personal expenses such as car leases and residential rent.
On April 4, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland indicted Banuelas on seven counts related to mail and wire fraud. He pleaded guilty on August 1, 2024.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations with prosecution led by Rachel K. Sowray, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
