Bank Worker in Essex County Charged with Defrauding Over $100K from Deceased Customer's Account

The U.S. Attorney's Office announces charges against a former Nutley bank employee for illegally withdrawing federal retirement benefits.

In a revealing indictment, Jorge Nova has been charged with one count of wire fraud, a crime that carries a potential 30-year prison sentence and a $1 million fine. The case, presided over by U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael A. Hammer, saw Nova released on a $100,000 unsecured bond.

The fraudulent activity reportedly began in 2014 at a commercial bank in Nutley, New Jersey. The accused, then an employee, exploited the Social Security Administration's (SSA) unawareness of a customer's death. The SSA continued depositing retirement benefits into the deceased's account for over four years.

Nova allegedly orchestrated the issuance of debit cards in the deceased customer's name, enabling him to deplete the retirement funds. He is also accused of setting up accounts with a money service provider under the deceased's name, further draining another bank account belonging to the victim.

This meticulous fraud resulted in the unlawful withdrawal of more than $105,000, funds meant for the deceased beneficiary. The Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, New York Field Division, led by Special Agent in Charge Sharon MacDermott, spearheaded the investigation that culminated in these charges.

Representing the government in this high-profile case is Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachelle M. Navarro of the Organized Crimes and Gang Unit in Newark.

As the legal process unfolds, it's important to remember that these charges are mere allegations, and Nova maintains his presumption of innocence until proven guilty.