U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington has sentenced Jonathan Daniels, a 46-year-old resident of St. Petersburg, to 14 years and 7 months in federal prison. Daniels was convicted of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft on February 10, 2023.

The trial revealed that Daniels and his co-conspirators were involved in a scheme to remove bank liens from over 100 vehicles, obtaining clear titles fraudulently. This action deprived financial institutions and vehicle owners of their rights. The group submitted fake documents and certified mail receipts to Florida tax collector offices, making it appear as though the vehicles had towing and storage liens. This allowed them to secure clear titles and sell the vehicles for profit.

Special Agent in Charge Robert Engel of the United States Secret Service – Tampa Field Office commented on the investigation: “The Secret Service is proud to partner with the U.S Postal Inspection Service and the Florida Highway Patrol. The results of this investigation are a testament to strong partnerships across the law enforcement community. The Secret Service remains committed to investigating those who engage in crimes that exploit our financial system.”

Steven Hodges, Acting Postal Inspector in Charge of the Miami Division, added: “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will aggressively investigate individuals who engage in fraudulent schemes at the expense of the American public and our financial institutions. We are committed to working with our partner law enforcement agencies to bring justice to those looking to use fraudulent means for personal gain. Criminals must understand there are consequences for their actions.”

The case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Florida Highway Patrol, with prosecution led by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer L. Peresie.