ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A fraud scheme promising New Mexicans access to a nonexistent multi-million-dollar fortune has led to a 30-month prison sentence for its orchestrator.
Lanette Bashore orchestrated the scheme from 2001 to Sept. of 2023, convincing victims in New Mexico and elsewhere to pay thousands to “unlock” the fortune. However, an investigation found Bashore used the funds for personal expenses and gambling.
The FBI opened the investigation as victims grew suspicious. They interviewed victims, reviewed banking records and even found Bashore persuaded victims to try and mislead the FBI…