KEARNY, N.J. — Six suspects from Brooklyn have been arrested in a multi-state takedown of an organized fraud ring that targeted rideshare drivers in a sophisticated identity theft scheme, law enforcement officials announced Thursday.
The arrests were made on May 8 following the execution of search and arrest warrants in Brooklyn, Newark, and Miramar, Florida. The joint investigation was led by the Kearny Police Department and the Jersey City Police Department’s Special Investigation Unit, with Kearny detectives present at all locations.
The suspects — Benshley Francillon, 24; Zamo Examo, 21; Jaden Labissiere, 21; Cedrick Alcime, 20; Walton Lawrence, 20; and Adebola Olowu, 22 — are facing a combined 280 charges including luring, robbery, theft, identity theft, money laundering, conspiracy, and weapons offenses. A seventh suspect, Michael Lawrence, 22, also of Brooklyn, has been charged but remains at large.
Investigators say the ring operated by booking rides with identical pickup and drop-off locations to confuse drivers. Suspects would then gain access to drivers’ phones under the pretense of entering a new destination, subsequently using the phones to access financial apps, steal funds, and commit identity fraud.
Authorities report the scheme has caused losses of over $100,000 and resulted in the closure of 40 cases in New Jersey alone, with additional charges expected.
Key points
- Six Brooklyn residents arrested for multi-state rideshare and identity fraud scheme
- Over 280 charges filed and more than $100,000 in losses recorded
- Suspects allegedly accessed drivers’ phones to commit financial crimes
Law enforcement calls takedown a major collaborative success
Chief Scott Macfie of the Kearny Police Department praised the collaborative investigation, saying, “This was a true team effort, and it’s a reflection of what’s possible when experience and collaboration come together.”
Officials emphasized the sophistication of the fraud operation, comparing it to other major takedowns involving cargo theft and cybercrime. Investigations remain active across multiple jurisdictions as authorities work to recover stolen funds and identify additional victims.
The suspects are awaiting court proceedings. Authorities continue to search for Michael Lawrence, the only charged individual not yet in custody.
