Harris County law enforcement, including local, state, and federal officers, arrested 37 individuals Wednesday morning after a two-year investigation into an extensive bail bond fraud scheme. This operation, which has been described as a “colossal” investigation, exposed how the fraudulent scheme allowed violent criminals to secure bond releases that they would normally not qualify for.
The investigation, led by the FBI, culminated in a federal indictment charging 53 individuals with wire fraud and conspiracy. The scheme allegedly involved falsified financial reports to secure bail bonds for individuals involved in high-profile criminal cases. Of those indicted, 50 are in custody, while three others remain at large: Tawana Jones, 44, of Houston; Pamela Yoder, 60, of Detroit, Michigan; and Amir Khan, 60, of Pakistan.
The arrested individuals are said to include both employees of AABLE Bonds, the company at the center of the scheme, and others who obtained fraudulent bonds. Federal agents were assisted by the Houston Police Department, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Marshals, and the Texas Department of Public Safety, with tactical teams from New Orleans and San Antonio.
The fraudulent operation allowed suspects facing serious charges, including violent crimes, to be released by falsifying co-signer financial documents. The bail bond company reportedly conspired with individuals to secure bonds for criminals who otherwise wouldn’t meet the financial qualifications, which allowed them to re-enter the streets.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams described the investigation as “the first of its kind,” noting the impact it had on public safety. “This investigation uncovered an illicit revolving door in the bail bond system,” Williams stated. “By falsifying financial reports, the accused individuals allegedly facilitated the release of criminals back onto our streets.”
Local law enforcement officials also expressed their commitment to addressing the issues within the bail bond system. Acting Houston Police Chief Larry J. Satterwhite and Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez both emphasized that the fraudulent actions jeopardized public safety and undermined the legal process. “We are committed to working with our partners to root out corruption and ensure those responsible are held accountable,” said Sheriff Gonzalez.
Among those indicted is Sheba Muharib, CEO of AABLE Bonds, who was previously questioned about her business practices in 2022 by the Harris County Bail Bond Board. Despite the inquiry, her license was renewed, but she is now facing charges of affecting persons engaged in the business of insurance.
The investigation began with a focus on violent offenders, which led to the discovery of the extensive bail bond fraud scheme. This case has now expanded to involve multiple individuals and is a major blow to a system that has been exploited to release criminals back into the community.
Law enforcement officials stated that the operation, which started before sunrise, marks a significant victory in the fight against bail bond fraud. They will continue to work together to combat such illegal activities and protect public safety.
