Kevin P. Davidson, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama
Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced on March 25 that Chris Kasimbo Kalwahali, a foreign national from the Democratic Republic of the Congo residing in Hockley, Texas, was sentenced to 33 months in prison for his role in an email compromise scheme that defrauded a business of more than $200,000.
The case highlights the ongoing threat posed by business email compromise schemes to companies both locally and nationwide. These types of cybercrimes can result in significant financial losses for businesses targeted by fraudsters.
Kalwahali pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering charges. After serving his prison sentence, he will be subject to three years of supervised release. There is no parole available under the federal system. "Business email compromise schemes are a growing threat to companies across our district and the nation," Davidson said. "Those who seek to exploit trusted business relationships for personal gain must be pursued and held accountable."
Special Agent in Charge Sara J. Jones with the FBI Mobile, Alabama Field Office said, "The FBI is working every day to disrupt and dismantle cybercriminals who prey on victims in southern Alabama." Jones added: "Today’s outcome is another example of our commitment to protecting victims and imposing consequences on the criminals who perpetrate cyber intrusions in our area. We encourage anyone who has been the victim of cybercrime to report it immediately at www.ic3.gov. Quick reporting gives us the best chance to work with victims and our partners to recover stolen funds and bring criminals to justice."
According to court records, Kalwahali’s co-conspirators gained unauthorized access in March 2023 to a business email account belonging to a company based in Auburn, Alabama using methods such as hacking or social engineering. The compromised account was then used by perpetrators impersonating legitimate users who sent fraudulent payment instructions directing funds into accounts controlled by members of their scheme.
One wire transfer totaling $209,308 was deposited into an account controlled by Kalwahali; he subsequently transferred proceeds—including over $83,000 used at a Houston car dealership—to other participants involved.
As part of sentencing proceedings held on March 24, Kalwahali was ordered by the court also pay a forfeiture money judgment amounting to $185,667 while additional restitution remains pending.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI Mobile Field Office with prosecution handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Michelle R. Turner and Eric M. Counts for the Middle District of Alabama.
