Norfolk, VA – Marquell Lamont Moon, a 31-year-old Portsmouth resident, was sentenced to four years and nine months in prison for aggravated identity theft, illegal firearm possession, and defrauding a COVID relief program. Moon, a known Crips gang member, engaged in a series of criminal activities, including a violent shooting incident and a sophisticated financial fraud scheme.
Violent Incident and Firearm Possession
In May 2021, Moon fired approximately 27 rounds at a victim in the presence of the victim’s 3-year-old child, striking the victim in the left hand. Law enforcement officers from Chesapeake pursued Moon, who fled at high speed, crashed into a residence, and attempted to escape on foot. During his flight, Moon discarded a black backpack and other items. Authorities recovered $8,275.66 and a stolen .45 semiautomatic handgun from his vehicle.
As a previously convicted felon, Moon is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. His past convictions include carrying a concealed weapon, reckless driving, resisting arrest, and forging credit cards.
Financial Fraud and Identity Theft
Moon’s vehicle and discarded backpack contained evidence of a financial fraud scheme, including credit and bank cards, a card embossing machine, and a notebook detailing the fraudulent activities. Law enforcement found 34 cards in other people’s names or with no name, and 28 blank debit/credit cards.
Moon fraudulently obtained $112,633 in unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic by using the personal information of 10 individuals without their consent. He submitted applications to the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) using this stolen information and entered weekly re-certifications attesting that the applicants were ready to work. Some victims were deceased or otherwise unable to work, highlighting the extent of Moon’s deception.
Federal agents interviewed the identity theft victims across several states, confirming that they did not know Moon and had not filed for unemployment benefits in Virginia. One victim was too apprehensive to comply with law enforcement, further complicating the investigation.
Current Incarceration and Sentencing
Moon is currently incarcerated for malicious wounding. His recent sentencing adds four years and nine months to his prison term, reflecting the severity of his offenses.
This case underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring and swift action by law enforcement to protect communities from violent criminals and prevent fraud.