Leah B. Foley United States Attorney for the District of Massachusetts | Department of Justice
A couple from Randolph, Massachusetts, has admitted guilt in a Ponzi scheme that defrauded investors of millions. Milendophe Duperier, 33, and Vanessa Joseph, 26, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun has set their sentencing for October 14, 2025. The charges were initially filed in May 2025.
Duperier, acting as an investment advisor with Joseph as his business partner and girlfriend, solicited investments under false pretenses between early 2018 and December 2022. They misled investors into believing their money would be invested in securities markets but instead used the funds for personal expenses and to pay previous investors.
The charging documents state that the duo defrauded over $3.2 million from individual investors. Some victims had invested their life savings. Additionally, they secured small business loans under false pretenses to pay supposed returns to investors while making false statements about missed payments.
The conspiracy charge could result in up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks of the FBI's Boston Division announced the plea today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mackenzie A. Queenin and Leslie A. Wright are handling prosecution duties.
For inquiries regarding this case: usama.victimassistance@usdoj.gov
