Woman Charged in $18 Million Counterfeit Coupon Scheme

Alleged Fraudulent Operation Targeted Retail Stores Nationwide, Including New Jersey

A San Antonio, Texas woman, Janet Bernal, also known by several aliases including “Rocky G” and “RockyG-Kruella,” has been arrested and charged with wire fraud for allegedly selling over $18 million worth of counterfeit coupons to be used at retail stores across the United States. Bernal, who was taken into custody on August 27, 2024, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard Farrer in the Western District of Texas and was released on a $15,000 secured bond.

Federal authorities allege that from June 2020 through June 2024, Bernal orchestrated a sophisticated scheme involving a subscription-based group on a cloud messaging platform, where she provided members access to download counterfeit coupons for a monthly fee. These fake coupons were used by consumers to purchase household items from various retail stores, including major pharmacies and grocery chains, resulting in significant financial losses. The alleged fraudulent operation reportedly affected 156 retail stores nationwide, including those in New Jersey, with total losses amounting to approximately $18 million.

The charges brought against Bernal carry severe penalties, including up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, or twice the financial gain or loss resulting from the offense.

The investigation was led by U.S. Postal Inspectors in Newark, New Jersey, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Christopher A. Nielsen, Philadelphia Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Blake Coppotelli of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark is handling the prosecution.

It is important to note that the charges in the complaint are accusations, and Bernal is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.