Richmond, Virginia – A South Chesterfield woman has admitted to orchestrating a scheme that defrauded her former employer and dozens of its customers. Ahshah Dior Martin, 35, pleaded guilty to charges of embezzlement and making false statements after stealing approximately $195,000 from at least 70 Truist Financial Corporation customer accounts.
Fraudulent Scheme Targeted Individuals and Nonprofits
According to court documents, Martin exploited her position at Truist to access sensitive financial data starting in 2023. Using her company-issued credentials, she initiated fraudulent payments and withdrawals, redirecting funds to herself through a child support payment system. Authorities revealed that she used this scheme not only to enrich herself, but to cover personal expenses including cosmetic items, travel, clothing, and even visits to a hookah bar.
Among the victims were not just individuals, but also respected organizations—ranging from churches and a children’s museum to a nonprofit eye tissue bank, small manufacturing businesses, and even the North Carolina Wing of the Civil Air Patrol. Martin’s reach extended to both private and public sectors, exploiting the trust of a diverse group of account holders.
Faking Death in a Desperate Attempt to Avoid Accountability
Martin’s actions caught up with her when she was terminated by Truist on April 15, 2024. However, she refused to return her work-issued laptop. In a bizarre and desperate move to evade further scrutiny, she attempted to fake her own death. On April 17, in response to a company inquiry about the device, Martin wrote, “Sorry to inform you, she has passed away.”
This false claim was quickly exposed, further compounding her legal troubles. By using deception at every turn, Martin aimed to obstruct the investigation into her embezzlement activities and avoid returning company property that could hold incriminating evidence…