Harmish Patel, a 26-year-old resident of Streamwood, Illinois, has been indicted in connection with a gold bullion scam targeting an elderly couple in Rensselaer County. The announcement was made by United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Buffalo Field Office.

The indictment claims that between December 1, 2023, and March 29, 2024, Patel conspired with others to transport fraudulently obtained gold bullion across state lines. Specifically, it is alleged that he transported the stolen gold from New York to New Jersey on three occasions: December 15, 2023; January 4, 2024; and January 15, 2024. According to a previously filed criminal complaint, Patel collected the gold from an elderly couple in Brunswick, New York who had fallen victim to the scam. It is important to note that these charges are accusations at this stage and Patel is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

If convicted, Patel faces a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment along with a potential fine of up to $250,000 and up to three years of supervised release. Sentencing would be determined by a judge considering the specific statutes violated as well as U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.

The investigation into this case is being conducted by HSI with assistance from the New York State Police. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Wentworth-Ping.

This case falls under the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative which aims to combat elder abuse and financial fraud targeting older adults. Individuals with information about attempted fraud involving elders are encouraged to contact the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311.