Mug Shot Monday — Gas Station Owner Arrested on $2.5 Million Bank Fraud

February 2, 2015

By Bob Coleman
Editor, Mug Shot Monday

The judge’s order to hold Shaukat Sindhu without bail says it all…

“At the preliminary hearing, the court accepted the testimony of Anthony Sano, an FBI agent specializing in the investigation of “white collar” crimes, including bank and securities fraud. Agent Sano testified that Defendant engaged in a pattern of conduct – including the use of “straw owners” and false identities – to defraud banks that held mortgages on several gas stations and properties actually owned by Defendant. The fraud was specifically detailed in the affidavit and criminal complain that were proffered into evidence.

Based upon the testimony of Agent Sano, and the affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, the Court finds that there is probable cause to believe that Defendant committed the crime alleged in the complaint.

Upon the finding of probable cause, the court proceeded to the issue of detention. The factors of 18 U.S.C §3142(g) warrant a finding of detention because of the weight of the evidence is strong and the type of sentence Defendant faces serves as an incentive to flee; Defendant has significant ties to the countries with no extradition treaties; and Defendant has more than one social security number. Defendant has also violated the terms of his bond and supervision in previous cases. Accordingly, no condition or combination of conditions will reasonably assure Defendant’s appearance.

In addition, Defendant is a danger to the community as his criminal history includes multiple battery charges and a charge of disorderly conduct, as well as convictions for battery and resisting arrest. Moreover, according to Agent Sano, Defendant threatened to harm or kill the family member of a cooperating witness in this case.

Accordingly, no condition or combination of conditions will reasonably assure the safety of the community.