A West Covina man pleaded guilty Monday to federal charges stemming from the theft of more than $200,000 from a professional golfer. Francisco “Frank” Javier Robledo Jr., 35, entered his plea to one count each of wire fraud, credit card fraud and aggravated identity theft in connection with a scheme to swindle LPGA Tour player Maria Hernandez.
Federal prosecutors contend that Robledo, who fashions himself as a sports agent, told Hernandez her money was going to be invested in two companies. Instead, he used the wire transfers to cover personal expenses, according to court documents.
The 29-year-old Hernandez, who hails from Spain and lives in the San Diego area, plays on the LPGA Tour. She previously played on the Ladies European Tour, where she won the Slovak Open in 2010.
Robledo is expected to be sentenced in Los Angeles federal court on Feb. 22.
— Wire reports