Five Suspects Accused of Cashing $20K in Fake Checks Across Charlotte and Sarasota Counties

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. — Authorities say five suspects are accused of cashing more than $20,000 in fraudulent checks across Charlotte and Sarasota counties, targeting two local businesses — Hamsher Homes Inc. and Palmer Revocable Trust.

According to court affidavits, the suspects carried out the check fraud scheme in April 2024, using multiple branches of Crews Bank & Trust to deposit at least 10 counterfeit checks directly into their personal bank accounts.

Suspects Identified in Check Fraud Scheme

Investigators identified the five suspects as Horret Travan, Kaniala Zayas, Michael McMillion, Giovanni Gladman, and Charles McCloud.

Law enforcement officials confirmed that Travan was arrested and extradited to Charlotte County earlier this week. He is already serving a three-year prison sentence for unrelated charges — including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and aggravated battery on a pregnant woman.

The other three — Zayas, McMillion, and Gladman — were found guilty in court. While each faced a maximum sentence of 15 years, the heaviest penalty issued was 15 months in prison and 36 months of probation, according to court documents.

Officials also confirmed that the fifth suspect, Charles McCloud, remains at large and has not yet been arrested.

Bank and Businesses Defrauded

The fraudulent checks were reportedly tied to legitimate local businesses, Hamsher Homes Inc. and Palmer Revocable Trust.

“They hit multiple bank branches using fake checks with the company’s name,” said a source familiar with the investigation. “It was a coordinated effort that spanned across county lines.”

Despite the losses, Crews Bank & Trust ultimately reimbursed the affected business owners, according to a statement provided by the owner of Hamsher Homes.

Timeline of Events

• April 2024: Suspects visit multiple Crews Bank & Trust locations in Charlotte and Sarasota counties.
• May–June 2024: Fake checks totaling more than $20,000 are confirmed deposited.
• October 2025: Arrests and extraditions follow months of investigation; one suspect remains at large.

Ongoing Investigation

The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office and Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office are continuing their joint investigation into the group’s activities. Detectives are reviewing whether the suspects may be connected to other regional fraud cases involving counterfeit checks and stolen business identities.

Authorities are urging anyone with information on Charles McCloud’s whereabouts to contact the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office or Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers.

Community Impact

Local law enforcement officials are reminding businesses to stay alert and monitor their financial activity closely.

“Fraud like this can devastate small business owners,” said a bank representative. “Always verify suspicious transactions and report discrepancies immediately.”

The case highlights a growing trend in banking-related fraud, which has increased across Florida in recent years.

For continuing coverage on this case and other public safety updates, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.