In Springfield, a significant legal development has taken place as a Chicago-based rap artist and celebrity barber, Terrence Bender (aka “Dopeblends”), found himself at the center of a nationwide fraud scheme. This case has not only brought attention to the illegal activities but also highlighted the consequences faced by those involved. Bender, aged 32, pleaded guilty on Monday in U.S. District Court in Springfield to a single count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The extent of his actions became evident as he admitted to being responsible for a substantial loss of $103,000 for business owners. This included the acquisition of luxury items such as private jet charters, luxury hotels, designer puppies, and exotic car rentals through stolen credit card information.

Implications and Sentencing

Bender is scheduled to be sentenced on February 27, 2025. This case holds particular significance as one of the companies victimized by the scheme is a charter flight company based in Western Massachusetts. Among the defendants convicted prior to Bender was the renowned rapper G Herbo, born Herbert Wright III, who emerged as the most prominent figure in the contingent. Wright was sentenced to three years of probation in January. It is interesting to note that Wright was mostly a passive player in the ring but served as the inspiration for the extravagant lifestyle that many in the entourage capitalized on, given his rising fame.

Rise to Prominence

Wright rose to prominence at a young age, reaching the age of 16. His talent and success have been widely recognized, as he has been featured in Forbes Magazine’s “30 Under 30” musicians roster. This recognition further emphasizes his impact in the music industry. Additionally, he has performed on “The Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon in November 2020, showcasing his ability to reach a wider audience.

Fraud Investigation Details

Federal prosecutors unveiled their charges in December 2020, setting the wheels of justice in motion. During Wright’s sentencing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven H. Breslow informed the judge that Wright was undoubtedly the wealthiest person in the room, earning up to $70,000 a month through record deals. This fact adds another layer to the case, highlighting the financial aspects involved. Investigators revealed that the co-conspirators frequently used the actual cardholders’ information to strengthen the scheme. As stated in an announcement from the Massachusetts U.S. Attorney’s Office, generally, because the payment card information was authentic, the defrauded businesses and individuals successfully processed the fraudulent transactions and provided the goods and services to Bender and his co-conspirators. However, the actual cardholders eventually discovered these transactions on their accounts and disputed the charges with their card companies. As a result, the card companies charged back the transactions to the businesses and individuals, leading to significant losses in the amounts of the unauthorized transactions.