United States of America v. Roderick Michael Bates

Raleigh, North Carolina, criminal defense lawyer represented the Defendant charged with attempted wire and identity fraud.

Roderick Michael Bates, 55, used stolen identities with fake driver’s licenses to secure financing for farm machinery and equipment from a local Sampson County business. Using these identities, he fraudulently purchased high-value items totaling more than $65,000, including a zero-turn mower, an Evolution D5 Ranger golf cart, and 12-foot and 16-foot dump trailers. He then had the business ship the items to him hundreds of miles away, outside the state of North Carolina.

“Criminals need to think twice before stealing from the good and hardworking people in Eastern NC.” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “Our office will prosecute you and stick you behind prison bars. Cheaters.Never.Win.”

“I would like to thank our federal partners that helped bring this individual to justice. The citizens of Sampson County should know that our offices will work tirelessly to protect the property and livelihoods of every citizen. Regardless of distance, we will find them.” said Sampson County Sheriff Jimmy Thornton.

Bates faces a mandatory minimum of 2 years and a maximum penalty of 42 years in prison when sentenced in a few months.

The FBI and the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Petracca is prosecuting the case.

Bates elected to plead guilty and faces a mandatory minimum of 2 years and a maximum penalty of 42 years in prison when sentenced in a few months.