ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Two Albany men were arrested this week after an extensive fraud investigation that resulted in the recovery of over 130 firearms, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York announced on Friday. Iziah Cox, 37, and his brother Kaya Cox, 41, were taken into custody on Tuesday as part of the FBI’s “Operation Tidal Wave.”
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Iziah and Kaya Cox are accused of conspiring to make false financial statements to a multitude of Capital Region banks utilizing dozens of state registered business entities with which the two men had no legitimate connection. The brothers allegedly used the trade names to open local bank accounts and acquire checks and wire transfers to scam legitimate companies.
During the investigation, law enforcement executed court-ordered search-and-seizure warrants at more than 15 properties, including residences in Albany and Troy as well as multiple storage units in Menands. During the searches, agents reportedly recovered 134 firearms, many of which were handguns and high-powered rifles concealed in stereo equipment.
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“This is one of the largest firearms seizures, if not the largest firearms seizure, in the history of the Northern District of New York. The number of firearms is significant, but more important are the many lives saved as a result of Operation Tidal Wave now that these guns cannot be used to kill and maim people,” Acting U.S. Attorney John Sarcone III stated. “Albany and Troy are much safer today than they were last week. This is what happens when federal, state and local law enforcement work together, which has been one of my top priorities since taking office five months ago.”
“This seizure, one of the largest ever recorded in our district, is the direct result of the tremendous partnerships displayed throughout Operation Tidal Wave,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli. “These guns will never make it into the hands of dangerous criminals looking to wreak havoc in our communities. The FBI is grateful to our partners for standing shoulder to shoulder with us in our shared goal of keeping our communities safe.”
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In addition to the conspiracy charges, Iziah Cox was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm as a previously convicted felon. The brothers face up to five years in prison and fines of up to $250,000 if found guilty of the conspiracy charges, and Iziah Cox also faces a maximum of 15 years in prison and an additional $250,000 fine for the weapon charge…