Florida Man Convicted For Using Telegram To Carry Out Bank Fraud Scheme Targeting Businesses In Alabama

Jan McDonald March 6, 2025

U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona announced on Wednesday that a Florida man was punished for his role in a Telegram-based bank fraud operation that targeted Alabama businesses.

Gabriel Odiot, 21, of Kissimmee, Florida, has been sentenced to 60 months in jail and ordered to forfeit $84,000. In December, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft.

According to the plea agreement and other court records from August 2022 to March 2023, Odiot was the administrator of “RICH OFF PLAYS,” a Telegram channel dedicated to the negotiation of counterfeit checks. He used the channel to recruit mail carriers, promote the services of bank insiders, and work with others to conduct bank fraud.

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Jan McDonald

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Jan McDonald – Managing Partner Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Jan McDonald relocated to the Demopolis area in 1991. Over the years, she has built an extensive career as a journalist and freelance writer, contributing her talents to various news outlets across Louisiana, Wisconsin, and Alabama. With her wealth of experience in journalism, Jan has honed her skills in reporting, writing, and storytelling, making her a versatile and respected voice in the field. As Managing Partner of The Watchman, Jan plays a crucial role in overseeing and producing editorial content for the publication. Her responsibilities include curating stories, ensuring high-quality journalism, and managing the day-to-day operations of the editorial team. Jan's dedication to maintaining the integrity of The Watchman's reporting, combined with her deep connection to the community, allows her to guide the publication with both passion and expertise.