New Jersey man allegedly stole gold bars from elderly Orchard Park victim

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- A New Jersey man pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud after allegedly stealing a large quantity of gold bars from a 76-year-old Orchard Park victim last year, the U.S. Attorney's Office announced Tuesday.

According to officials, 29-year-old Jaspreet Singh conspired with others to fraudulently convince victims to provide money and property to members of the conspiracy.

On July 25, 2023, Singh traveled from New Jersey to Orchard Park after being instructed to drive to the home of a 76-year-old victim identified as "W.D." and collect packages containing gold bars. Wyoming County officials pulled him over for speeding later that same day.

During the traffic stop, Singh provided conflicting information to the officers, but gave them permission to search the vehicle. The officers found a USPS package containing American reserve bullion one-ounce gold bars and a large quantity of shipping boxes.

W.D. said that he and his wife were told their identities were used in a fraudulent scheme and that purchasing the bars would clear their names, officials said. If they did not purchase the bars, they would be arrested and prosecuted, the victim said. He suffered a great loss to his retirement funds and savings accounts.

Conspiracy to commit wire fraud carries a fine of $250,000 and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Sentencing has yet to be scheduled.