U.S. Army Recruiter Charged in Identity Theft and Bank Fraud Scheme

Sergeant First Class faces severe penalties for exploiting recruits’ personal information to defraud credit union.

NEWARK, N.J. — Jane Crosby, 33, a sergeant first class and U.S. Army recruiter from Jersey City, New Jersey, has been charged with multiple counts of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft in connection with a scheme that exploited U.S. Army recruits' personal information. The charges, announced by U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger, allege that Crosby used her position to fraudulently open accounts and apply for loans using recruits' identities without their consent.

According to court documents and statements made in federal court, Crosby is accused of misusing her access to sensitive personal data of seven Army recruits and recruit candidates between September 12, 2023, and December 27, 2023. The alleged scheme involved submitting "Pre-Active Duty Membership" applications to a credit union on behalf of the recruits, which would typically be used to set up direct deposits for military salaries. However, Crosby reportedly used the victims' names, Social Security numbers, and other identifying documents, such as passports and driver's licenses, to open fraudulent bank accounts.

Once the accounts were established, Crosby is accused of applying for loans and credit cards in the recruits' names, securing approximately $266,000 in fraudulent funds. Some accounts were reportedly used to deposit fake checks, which Crosby allegedly withdrew for personal use.

Crosby appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Leda Dunn Wettre in Newark federal court and was released on a $100,000 unsecured bond. She faces one count of bank fraud, which carries a potential 30-year prison sentence and a fine of up to $1 million, or twice the amount gained or lost through the crime. Additionally, she faces seven counts of aggravated identity theft, each carrying a mandatory consecutive sentence of two years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.

The investigation was led by special agents of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Joel Kirch. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Kober of the General Crimes Unit in Newark.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger emphasized that the charges are accusations and that Crosby is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

This case highlights concerns over the misuse of sensitive personal information and the trust placed in individuals serving in positions of authority. As the investigation continues, recruits and service members are reminded to remain vigilant about the protection of their personal data.

The U.S. Army and federal agencies have yet to comment on any internal disciplinary actions that may follow the criminal proceedings. Crosby’s next court date has not yet been announced.