CA man convicted in multi-million dollar fraud scheme; $310,500 stolen from Town of Bristol

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — A California man pleaded guilty to a money laundering scheme defrauding millions from businesses, individuals and the Town of Bristol, RI.

Alec Tahir Baker, 61, pleaded guilty to conspiracy and money laundering charges Tuesday in Rhode Island federal court, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.

Baker admitted to using phishing scams to gain access to computer networks and sending legitimate wire transfers to his own accounts.

He opened multiple bank accounts in his own name and in the names of fraudulent companies, stealing more than $7.6 million.

Baker then quickly transferred, withdrew or layered the stolen money to hide its origin, sometimes using cryptocurrency accounts.

He accessed Bristol’s computer network in January of 2023, wiring $310,500 in town funds to one of his bank accounts.

The funds were then redirected or withdrawn.

Baker will be sentenced on February 24, 2026.