A former federal prosecutor who spent nearly two decades investigating white-collar fraud has pleaded guilty to using stolen identities to open and fund online gambling accounts. Monica Dillon, a longtime assistant US attorney in West Virginia's Southern District, admitted to stealing the names, social security numbers and dates of birth of five individuals between January 2021 and January 2023. She used the stolen identities to create online gambling accounts in their names and make financial transactions. During the same period, she led a team of eight attorneys prosecuting white-collar fraud cases. The case also serves as a reminder of the importance of using trusted platforms and following responsible gambling practices when participating in online gambling.
US District Judge Kenneth Bell approved a pretrial diversion agreement in May 2026 under which Dillon will serve no jail time despite facing potential sentences of up to 15 years per count. She must complete 24 months of supervised probation and pay at least $30,000 in restitution to one victim. If she completes the supervision period, all five counts will be dismissed. She has already been disbarred in West Virginia. The case is a reminder that identity theft for gambling purposes is a federal crime regardless of whether online gambling is legal in the state. Victims whose details are used to open accounts may face significant financial and legal complications before the fraud is discovered.
