May 24, 2025

Federal Agents Arrest Man in Money Laundering Scheme

News Summary

Jose Rivelino Serafim Da Silva was arrested for allegedly engaging in a money laundering and tax evasion scheme involving undocumented workers in South Carolina. Federal authorities apprehended him in a Bank of America parking lot while he carried $7,000 intended for illicit financial transactions. Alongside his accomplice Jimmy Soares De Oliveira Carvalho, Da Silva faces multiple charges, including witness tampering. The co-defendants operated numerous LLCs, allegedly enabling contractors to evade taxes on over $74 million in transactions since 2017, raising concerns about the broader implications for the local economy.

Charleston – On May 21, federal agents arrested Jose Rivelino Serafim Da Silva in a Bank of America parking lot for allegedly participating in a money laundering and tax evasion scheme involving undocumented workers. Da Silva was apprehended while carrying $7,000 in cash and checks which he intended to cash on behalf of construction contractors employing undocumented immigrants.

Da Silva, along with accomplice Jimmy Soares De Oliveira Carvalho, faces 16 counts of money laundering and related charges. If convicted, both could face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. The duo has pleaded not guilty, but Carvalho is additionally charged with witness tampering, as he is accused of intimidating a cooperating witness who had previously assisted in cashing checks for their operation. Reports indicate that federal agents lost contact with this witness between spring and summer 2024. Following the witness’s disappearance, Da Silva allegedly assumed the role of cashing payments.

During a court appearance, U.S. Magistrate Judge Molly Cherry denied bail for Da Silva, considering him a flight risk due to the absence of family ties in the U.S. after residing in the country for six years on a visa. The investigation into the suspects included extensive surveillance, revealing their frequent meetings at banks and during transactions.

According to the indictment, the men operated a network of 11 limited liability companies (LLCs) that enabled construction contractors in South Carolina to evade taxes and unemployment compensation on approximately $74 million since 2017. Each company reportedly funneled money through multiple bank accounts, with transactions often exceeding $10,000 and in some cases as high as $85,000. To evade detection, when banks noted possible money laundering activities, Da Silva and Carvalho would switch accounts or use different company names.

One of the LLCs used in the operation is alleged to have handled about $11.5 million since 2017. The scheme reportedly involved creating shell companies, issued checks in the companies’ names, and paid undocumented workers in cash after deducting processing fees.

The ramifications of such illegal operations extend beyond the individuals directly involved. D.J. Hampton, President and CEO of Trident United Way, has highlighted the financial struggles faced by underreported households in the region. Data from Trident United Way revealed that 38% of households in the tri-county area, encompassing Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties, cannot afford to meet basic living needs. The same data indicates that 11% of these households were living in poverty in 2023, while an additional 27% were categorized as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed).

The study emphasizes that a family of four with an infant and preschooler would require an annual income of $89,904 to cover living costs in the Charleston area. The investigation into Da Silva and Carvalho may shed light on larger issues of financial dishonesty affecting the local economy and its residents.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the community remains watchful of the outcomes, understanding that such actions could have broader implications for local labor practices and employment standards. The enforcement of laws against money laundering and tax evasion aims to uphold the integrity of the financial system and ensure fair treatment of all workers, particularly those who may lack protections due to their immigration status. The developments in this case will be closely monitored by law enforcement and community organizations committed to supporting vulnerable populations in South Carolina.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

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