Associate of Chicago Rapper G Herbo Pleads Guilty in Wire-Fraud Case
Terrence Bender Enters Plea in Massachusetts Federal Court
Terrence Bender, a 32-year-old rapper known by his stage names “Blends” and “Dopeblends”, has pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud in a Massachusetts federal court. The Department of Justice announced the plea in a news release on Monday.
Indictment and Alleged Fraud
Bender and five co-defendants, including G Herbo, were indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2020. The indictment accused the group of fraudulently obtaining credit card account information to defraud businesses and individuals nationwide. The alleged fraud occurred from at least March 2017 until November 2018, during which time the group used authentic payment information to pay for private jet charters, designer pets, luxury hotels, and more.
Victims and Damages
The cardholders disputed the transactions on their accounts with their banks, and the businesses and individuals who approved the transactions suffered the loss. Bender is responsible for $103,000 in damages to victims, according to prosecutors.
Sentencing and Co-Defendants
Bender surrendered to authorities in December 2020. In January, G Herbo, whose real name is Herbert Wright III, was sentenced to three years’ probation. Two other co-defendants, Demario Sorrells and Joseph Williams, were sentenced to probation in August. Last month, co-defendant and Chicago-area music promoter Antonio Strong was sentenced to three years in prison. The final co-defendant, Steven Hayes Jr., is facing trial.
Sentencing Date
Bender is scheduled for sentencing on February 27.
Conclusion
The guilty plea marks another step in the resolution of the wire-fraud case, which has involved several high-profile figures in the music industry. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting personal and financial information from fraud.
FAQs
Q: What is the alleged fraud related to?
A: The alleged fraud involves the fraudulent use of credit card account information to defraud businesses and individuals nationwide.
Q: Who is involved in the case?
A: Terrence Bender, G Herbo, and five other co-defendants are involved in the case.
Q: What is the punishment for Bender?
A: Bender has pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and is scheduled for sentencing on February 27.
Q: What is the total amount of damages caused by Bender?
A: Bender is responsible for $103,000 in damages to victims, according to prosecutors.
