LEWISBURG, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Authorities are investigating a multi-state fraud scheme that recently struck several People’s Bank branches in Greenbrier County, West Virginia, where suspects used stolen identities and fake checks to steal nearly $20,000.
According to police reports, on April 11, 2015, a woman walked into People’s Bank on Washington Street East in Lewisburg and successfully cashed a fraudulent cashier’s check worth $9,800 under the name “Barbara Bailey.” The suspect presented a fake North Carolina ID to complete the transaction. Shortly afterward, she attempted to cash a second check for the same amount but was denied.
Bank officials discovered both checks had been drawn on the account of Marquita Weikart of Mt. Orab, Ohio, without authorization. Surveillance images showed the suspect—described as an older woman with gray-blonde hair who walked with a limp—leaving the scene.
The same woman allegedly struck again later that day at another People’s Bank branch in Lewisburg, this time posing as Sandra Laws of Felicity, Ohio. Investigators say she withdrew $9,800 and $6,800 from Laws’ legitimate account, indicating she had detailed personal and banking information.
Fraud Network Uncovered
As the investigation unfolded, police learned that the woman was part of a larger fraud ring targeting multiple People’s Bank branches across several states. Photos and security footage linked the same suspects to attempted fraud in White Sulphur Springs, WV, and beyond.
Using facial recognition technology, investigators identified the primary suspect as Fanny Singer. A second woman, later believed to be Marianna Murphy, also participated in the scheme by opening fraudulent accounts and cashing counterfeit checks.
Authorities also tied a rented white Acura MDX with New Jersey plates to the suspects. The vehicle was traced back to Michael Earlington of Paterson, NJ, who allegedly rented it during the time of the crimes. Police in New Jersey later confirmed Earlington matched descriptions provided by witnesses and surveillance.
Cooperation Across States
The case expanded into a multi-agency investigation. Detectives in West Virginia, New York, and Indiana coordinated efforts, sharing surveillance images, rental agreements, and license plate recognition data.
Investigators also interviewed a woman named Sherrie Sanz, currently incarcerated in another state, who admitted she had been recruited into the fraud operation by a man she knew as “B.” She described him as having a distinctive birthmark or discoloration near his mouth—matching Earlington’s appearance.
Scope of Losses
In Greenbrier County alone, the fraudsters successfully stole $19,500 and attempted to obtain another $9,800. Authorities believe the same group may be responsible for similar fraudulent withdrawals and check scams in several states.
Ongoing Investigation
Police say the case highlights the sophistication of modern financial fraud rings, which combine stolen personal data, fake IDs, and coordinated travel across state lines. Federal authorities may become involved as the investigation continues.
