Fraud Alert: Woman Sentenced to Prison for $483K Amazon Fraud Scheme
Tiffany Vo, a 37-year-old resident of Denver, has been sentenced to 12 months and one day in federal prison for defrauding her employer, Amazon. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announced the sentence, which also includes three years of supervised release and a restitution payment of $483,393.58. Vo pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
Details of the Fraud Scheme
Vo was employed by Amazon from the summer of 2020 until June 2022, overseeing virtual employee programs during the COVID-19 pandemic. During her employment, she orchestrated a scheme that involved submitting fraudulent invoices and expense reports, claiming reimbursement for corporate event expenses that never occurred. This fraudulent activity led to a loss of approximately $483,393.58 for the company.
Impact of the Crime
“White-collar crimes like this one cause financial impact not just to corporate entities, but to consumers and taxpayers,” said Acting United States Attorney for the District of Colorado, Matt Kirsch. “This office will continue to prosecute criminals who exploit access for personal gain.”
Lavish Lifestyle Funded by Fraudulent Activities
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Vo used the embezzled funds to support a lavish lifestyle, purchasing luxury items such as designer handbags, sunglasses, two vehicles, exercise equipment, and beauty products. She also made payments on her condominium.
Law Enforcement’s Response
“Instead of working for her employer, this defendant was furtively working against her employer. Over the course of her deception, she stole nearly $500,000 and used the money to live exorbitantly beyond her means,” stated Mark Michalek, FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge.
The FBI’s Denver complex financial crimes squad played a crucial role in uncovering Vo’s embezzlement scheme, ensuring that she now faces the justice she earned.
