Costa Rica Sweepstakes Scam: Unmasking a Mastermind

The U.S. justice system has scored a victory against a nefarious scheme that preyed on the unsuspecting and vulnerable. Federico Hernandez Gamboa, the so-called ‘Wizard of Deceit,’ found his magic run out at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston. His attempted vanishing act was cut short by authorities on February 10th, marking the end of a con that swindled elderly Americans out of a staggering $4.3 million.

Damian Williams, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, unveiled the cloak of deception that Gamboa and his band of modern-day highwaymen wielded to dupe seniors. Masquerading as federal officials, they dangled the false promise of sweepstakes millions, only to plunder the life savings of their targets under the guise of taxes and fees.

“Gamboa and his merry band of swindlers have run afoul, preying on the elderly with their vile machinations,” declared U.S. Attorney Williams. “Their reprehensible scheme has not only pilfered millions but has left emotional scars. May this arrest serve as a balm to those affected and a stern warning to others tempted by the path of deceit.”

Operating from the shadows of Costa Rica, this criminal enterprise reached into the homes of U.S. residents, sowing false hope and reaping ill-gotten gains. Victims, lured by the siren call of non-existent winnings, found themselves wiring funds into the abyss of Gamboa’s pockets. The scammers didn’t stop at theft; they plundered personal information to forge documents and identities, adding insult to financial injury.

Charged with a litany of offenses, including conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud, along with aggravated identity theft, Gamboa faces the prospect of up to 32 years behind bars. The net widens as investigators hunt for over a dozen conspirators, still at large, in this twisted tale of greed and exploitation.

In a world where fairy tales are turned on their head, Williams offers sage advice to the nation’s seniors: skepticism is your shield, and verification your sword. Consult with those you trust before parting with your treasure, and report any whiff of fraud to the authorities. In this story, the good guys are closing in, and justice is the prize.