Florida resident facing charges for laundering over $300 million in drug proceeds, including funds connected to the infamous Sinaloa Cartel and other global criminal organizations.
Alain Bibliowicz Mitrani, a resident of Florida with dual citizenship in France and Colombia, is accused of utilizing a technology company as a cover for a sophisticated money laundering scheme.
Mitrani has been charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering and conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money-transmitting business, according to the indictment unsealed today in federal court in Brooklyn.
Mitrani and his accomplices cleverly concealed their illegal operations by operating under the guise of a legitimate technology company. However, unbeknownst to authorities, this seemingly innocent front served as a façade for an intricate money laundering scheme that spanned across Florida and Colombia. This elaborate setup aimed to facilitate the repatriation of illicit profits for various criminal organizations, including powerful drug cartels.
“As alleged, the defendant used a seemingly legitimate technology company as a front for engaging in a multi-million dollar scheme that deliberately flouted federal laws to launder over $300 million, including for cartels and transnational criminal organizations engaged in drug trafficking,” stated United States Attorney John J. Durham.
Mitrani allegedly utilized his unlawfully acquired funds to fund an extravagant way of life, which included the acquisition of a luxurious $4 million Miami residence, the purchase of high-end jewelry, and indulging in opulent travel experiences.
“Alain Bibliowicz Mitrani’s alleged money laundering scheme crumbled today, as did any façade of legitimacy behind his purported technology business,” stated HSI Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Alfonso. “These accusations mark the beginning of the end for an alleged criminal organization that stands accused of defrauding financial institutions and enabling the availability of narcotics to American communities.”
If Mitrani is found guilty, he could potentially face up to 20 years in prison for the charges of money laundering conspiracy. Additionally, he may face a maximum of five years for the charge of unlicensed money transmitting conspiracy.