Alexander M.M. Uballez U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico
A federal jury in New Mexico has convicted Robert Haack of wire fraud, mail fraud, and violations of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act. Haack was found guilty of selling counterfeit jewelry purported to be the work of renowned Native American artist Charles Loloma on eBay. The trial lasted four days, concluding with a verdict after approximately four hours of deliberation.
Charles Loloma is recognized as one of the most prominent Native American jewelry makers of the 20th century, with his pieces displayed in galleries and museums across the Southwest. His authentic works can fetch tens of thousands of dollars.
Evidence presented during the trial showed that Haack conducted a sophisticated scheme from his California home. He created fake Loloma jewelry pieces and sold them for several thousand dollars each on eBay. Undercover federal agents purchased two pieces from him to verify their authenticity.
Verma Nequatewa, Loloma's niece and a jeweler trained by him, testified that the pieces acquired by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Agents were not genuine. Additional evidence seized from Haack's residence included raw materials for jewelry-making, unfinished pieces styled like Loloma's work, engraving tools concealed in a boot, practice signatures on metal shards, and design sketches.
Haack reportedly sold over $400,000 worth of fake Loloma jewelry before being charged. This scheme affected not only defrauded buyers but also damaged Loloma's legacy and impacted the broader Native American art community.
"We will protect the sacred cultural heritage and unique history of authentic Native American artistry as well as consumers from scammers," stated U.S Attorney Uballez.
Doug Ault, Assistant Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement said, "Robert Haack’s counterfeit operation significantly impacted the Native American art and craft marketplace." He emphasized that "Native American art fraud is a serious crime that exploits consumers" while undermining both economic and cultural aspects vital to Native American artists and tribes.
Meridith Stanton from the Indian Arts and Crafts Board noted that "Counterfeit Indian art – like Robert Haack’s jewelry... tears at the very fabric of Indian culture." She highlighted how such actions undermine consumer confidence in genuine Indian artwork.
Following his conviction, Haack remains under release conditions pending sentencing which has yet to be scheduled. He faces up to 20 years in prison with no possibility for parole within the federal system.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife's Office of Law Enforcement with assistance from the Indians Arts and Crafts Board. The prosecution is being handled by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico.
