Evergreen Reporter

The eighth and final defendant involved in a nationwide rental car theft scheme has entered a guilty plea. James E. McGhaney, 35, from New York, admitted guilt in the U.S. District Court in St. Louis to charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and multiple counts of wire fraud.

Tyrell A. Oliver, 40, recognized as the orchestrator of the operation, pleaded guilty on October 23 to similar charges along with aggravated identity theft. According to court documents, Oliver coordinated the reservation of high-end rental vehicles using stolen credit card information and identities.

McGhaney played a significant role by recruiting and overseeing other participants in this illicit activity. The group targeted locations across the United States such as Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina. It was common for McGhaney and others to travel together from New York on flights booked by both Oliver and McGhaney for their criminal endeavors.

In total, at least 23 stolen identities were used by Oliver's team to acquire 19 rental cars valued at approximately $1.1 million.

Other individuals involved have also pled guilty: Steven B. Matthews from Atlanta; Shawnta B. Fonseca, Reginald M. Glenn, Marlique J. McGhaney, and Daquasia M. Robinson from New York; along with Rashad Holder who faced additional charges including aggravated identity theft.

Sentencing dates are set with McGhaney due on February 19, 2025, while Oliver is scheduled for February 6, 2025. The remaining defendants will receive their sentences between December 10, 2024, and early February.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation into this case with Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Clow handling prosecution duties.