Trucking company scammed out of $900k by former driver

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Updated Jul 27, 2017

A New Jersey-based trucking company trucking company was scammed out of nearly a million dollars in a payroll fraud scheme led by one of its former truck drivers.

Miguel Vidal pleaded guilty March 30 for defrauding carrier Clifford B. Finkle Jr. out of $920,380. Vidal was no longer employed by the company at the time of the fraud. He ran a payroll scam with his two brothers, Angel D. Vidal and Angel Gabriel Vidal. They have also pleaded guilty on charges for their involvement.

Lisa Popewiny, a company payroll clerk, allegedly created false payroll checks for them. Miguel Vidal also recruited others to participate in the scheme. Popewiny allegedly created fraudulent paychecks for 12 different individuals. Her trial is set for Oct. 2.

Miguel Vidal and his brothers may face up to 20 years in prison each, along with fines. Sentencing is set for Nov. 17.