Mark A. Totten United States Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan
A federal jury has found Jesus Gaytan-Garcia, a 45-year-old resident of Chicago, guilty of interstate transportation of stolen money and theft from an Indian tribal organization. The verdict was announced by U.S. Attorney Mark Totten for the Western District of Michigan. Gaytan-Garcia's sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
“This case underscores the need for businesses, organizations, and citizens to be diligent and cautious about phone and internet scams,” stated U.S. Attorney Totten. He credited the successful conviction to investigators from the Pokagon Tribal Police Department and the FBI who identified Gaytan-Garcia as one of the perpetrators.
Evidence presented during the trial revealed that on July 30, 2023, a call was made to Hartford Four Winds Casino by an individual impersonating the tribal chairperson. The caller requested urgent funds, convincing a casino supervisory employee to take $700,000 in cash out of the casino. The employee transported this money across state lines to Gary, Indiana, where it was handed over to two unidentified individuals. Evidence showed that Gaytan-Garcia was one of these individuals.
A search conducted at Gaytan-Garcia’s residence in Chicago uncovered a bundle of cash wrapped in a paper band stamped with "Hartford," corresponding with the location and date related to Four Winds Casino's loss.
Pokagon Band Chief of Police Mario RedLegs commented on the outcome: “The cooperative efforts of the FBI and our tribal law enforcement have resulted in justice for the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians.” He praised all involved for their teamwork and diligence which were key in holding Gaytan-Garcia accountable.
Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan, noted: "The conviction of Jesus Gaytan-Garcia represents a significant step toward justice and healing for the Pokagon Tribal Community." Gibson acknowledged various agencies' collaborative efforts as essential to securing this prosecution.
The investigation was carried out by Pokagon Band Tribal Police alongside the FBI. The prosecution team included Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Lane and Alexia Jansen.
