By Howard Packowitz

BLOOMINGTON – A McLean County jury has found a man guilty of running a bank fraud scam in Bloomington and Normal.

Reginald Cooper, 25, faces a mandatory prison sentence after jurors convicted him on Tuesday of organizing a continuing financial crime enterprise, which is a Class X felony.

Over a ten-month period ending in May, prosecutors said Cooper arranged to have others open multiple checking accounts, then deposited forged checks into those accounts.

Money would quickly be withdrawn from ATM’s before the banks determined the checks weren’t valid.

Prosecutors said Cooper stole $2,750.

The State’s Attorney noted the crime carries heightened penalties because it involves luring others into criminal activity who might otherwise not be involved in breaking the law.

After the trial Brad Rigdon stated, “The jury’s verdict is a reflection of the excellent work by the Normal and Bloomington Police Departments during this complex investigation,” said Assistant McLean County State’s Attorney Brad Rigdon.

“Hopefully this sends a message that this type of financial crime enterprise which manipulates and harms so many people will not be tolerated by the community,” Rigdon also said.

Cooper’s sentencing is set for August 25.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected].