2 Romanian nationals charged with wire fraud

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) — Two Romanian nationals have been charged with federal wire fraud and identity theft after falsely claiming to run a business in Georgia, officials said Monday.

Bogdan Alexandru Gherghevici, 26, and Viorel Cristea, 33, have been indicted on 16 counts in connection to a Homeland Security investigation.

The two allegedly participated in a scheme to sell fictitious farming equipment to people across the country, which resulted in around $600,000 taken from victims, a U.S. Attorney’s Office spokesperson said.

Gherghevici and Cristea reportedly began their scheme around March 2025 in the Southern District of Georgia, officials said.

If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison for each wire fraud charge, and a mandatory two years in prison consecutively for the aggravated identity theft charge.

The Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Savannah Field Office is investigating the case.

“This case highlights the commitment of Homeland Security Investigations to aggressively pursue individuals who exploit others through fraudulent schemes,” said Special Agent in Charge of HSI in Georgia and Alabama Steven Schrank. “The defendants allegedly orchestrated a complex operation targeting victims nationwide, resulting in significant financial losses. HSI will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to ensure those who engage in such criminal activities are held accountable and brought to justice.”