HOUSTON — This is an official press release from the U.S. Department of Justice (USAO - Texas, Southern), published as received.
HOUSTON – A 45-year-old Houston man has admitted to running a fraudulent investment scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
From July through November 2017, Samuel Ayala-Ibarra operated JASTBITME, a Houston-based company that falsely promised high returns through cryptocurrency investments. Ayala-Ibarra told clients their money would be invested in cryptocurrency, but he instead used the funds for personal gain and to repay earlier investors. He also paid others to recruit new clients.
Once clients invested, JASTBITME created fake documents to show fabricated growth and returns. Ayala-Ibarra used these false reports to persuade clients to reinvest.
The scheme resulted in numerous victims who never received their original investments or promised returns.
Senior U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt will impose sentencing Nov. 3. At that time, Ayala-Ibarra faces up to 20 years in federal prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine for each of three counts of wire fraud.
He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
The Secret Service conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) Rodolfo Ramirez is prosecuting the case. AUSA Kristine Rollinson is handling seizure and forfeiture matters.
