Tara K. McGrath, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California
Brink’s Global Services USA, Inc., a subsidiary of Brink’s, Inc. and The Brink’s Company, has agreed to forfeit over $50 million following allegations of operating as an unlicensed money transmitting business. This settlement marks the first instance where an armored car company has admitted to criminal wrongdoing for failing to register under the Bank Secrecy Act.
Brink’s Global Services USA, Inc. (BGS) acknowledged that it did not comply with regulations requiring registration with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) and maintaining anti-money laundering programs. Under a Non-Prosecution Agreement, BGS admitted to illegally transporting money both domestically and internationally without necessary compliance controls.
An example cited involved BGS moving more than $15 million from a San Diego-based money service business to another in Florida across 12 transactions without verifying the final beneficiary's identity. Furthermore, BGS was implicated in importing over $35 million into the U.S. from Mexico on behalf of a Mexican money service business.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Haden stated, “This year’s long investigation detected—and now closes—a back door where cash covertly entered the global financial system.” He emphasized the focus on holding accountable those who bypass U.S. law.
Shawn Gibson of Homeland Security Investigations highlighted collaboration efforts in addressing criminal enterprises exploiting the financial system: “Our commitment to safeguarding the integrity of our financial markets remains resolute.”
Sidney Aki from Customs and Border Protection noted their role in exposing illicit activities: “Their agreement to forfeit these funds demonstrates our commitment to holding individuals and businesses accountable when they violate the law.”
In parallel proceedings, BGS resolved civil allegations with FinCEN regarding its failure to maintain adequate anti-money laundering measures.
The case was led by Assistant U.S. Attorney E. Christopher Beeler with contributions from Carl F. Brooker and Michael A. Deshong.
