A man in British Columbia is one step closer to facing justice in the United States, accused of orchestrating a cruel scheme that preyed on vulnerable seniors worldwide. The alleged fraud netted over US$13 million, promising a life-changing prize that never materialized.
Alexander Quaglia was ordered into custody after a B.C. Supreme Court judge approved his extradition to the U.S. to answer to fraud charges. However, a 30-day window for appeal remains open, and Quaglia has already filed, securing temporary release on bail while the legal process unfolds.
The U.S. alleges Quaglia ran a sophisticated mass-mailing operation from British Columbia, specifically targeting elderly individuals with the false hope of winning a US$1 million prize. Victims were lured into sending fees, ranging from US$19.95 to US$39.95, believing it was a necessary step to claim their winnings.
Instead of a grand prize, recipients received only a booklet filled with more sweepstakes offers – a cycle designed to extract further payments. The scheme operated for five years, between 2011 and 2016, generating a staggering US$13 million in revenue for Quaglia.
The U.S. Justice Department announced charges against Quaglia and three others – another Canadian and two Americans – in 2020, as part of a broader crackdown on elder fraud. Officials vowed to relentlessly pursue those who exploit older Americans, regardless of geographical boundaries.
The court determined that sufficient evidence exists to suggest a trial would be warranted if the alleged fraud had occurred within Canada. This decision hinges on the principle that a reasonable jury could potentially find Quaglia guilty based on the presented evidence.
Key testimony is expected from former employees of Quaglia’s company, Navigator. A former general manager is prepared to state that the mailings were intentionally deceptive, designed to mislead recipients about the promised prize.
Evidence also suggests a deliberate effort to obscure the scheme’s origins. Mail intended for U.S. addresses was routed through multiple locations – Wyoming, Buffalo, New York, and finally Toronto or Vancouver – before reaching its destination.
Quaglia’s defense centered on challenges to the evidence, questioning its sourcing and claiming the actual solicitations weren’t presented in court. However, the judge dismissed these arguments, stating a jury could reasonably conclude guilt based on the anticipated testimony.
The evidence clearly points to Quaglia’s control over Navigator and his significant personal profit from the fraudulent operation. He faces charges of mail fraud and conspiracy to commit mail fraud, alongside co-accused Patrick Fraser, also from Canada.
Two Americans, Sean Novis and Gary Denkberg, were also indicted on similar charges, accused of running a parallel fraudulent scheme targeting thousands of consumers with false prize promises. Each charge carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years and substantial fines.
It’s important to remember that these are allegations, and the accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of seniors to fraud and the importance of vigilance.
