Investigators described Williams primarily as a “lead broker” who bought and sold “sucker lists” of potential victims. He was the only one of 32 defendants to opt for trial; about a dozen defendants are awaiting extradition from Jamaica.
Prosecutors said Williams, who was arrested in North Carolina, was the first person from Jamaica convicted of selling the lead lists used in the scam.
“I hope it makes a difference,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Clare Hochhalter said. “I hope it sends a message to the people who continue doing this crime.”
Defense attorney Charlie Stock said he hadn’t decided on whether there would be an appeal. “I need to speak with Mr. Williams to see where he wants to go,” he said.
Jurors in U.S. District Court in Bismarck had deliberated since Tuesday afternoon before reaching a verdict.
Prosecutors said the case came to light four years ago when Edna Schmeets, 86, of Harvey, North Dakota, received a call from a man who told her she had won $19 million and a new car, and needed only to pay taxes and fees. The process dragged on until the widow’s savings were wiped out, a sum of about $300,000.