ATLANTA (AP) — In early 2024, Luther Davis, a former defensive tackle at the University of Alabama, donned makeup and a wig for video calls orchestrated to finalize a staggering $4 million loan. He successfully misled investors, convincing them the funds were intended for an active NFL player, while he impersonated said athlete.
These allegations surfaced in a criminal complaint lodged against Davis by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Atlanta last month. Federal prosecutors detailed how Davis utilized various disguises—wearing a wig on one occasion and a do-rag on another—for further impersonation of two other NFL players during identical video calls, resulting in millions more being stolen through fraudulent loans.
Although specific identities of the players remain obscured by initials in the complaint, the stakes of the case are alarming. Davis and his accomplice, CJ Evins, face charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Both pleaded not guilty in March but are poised to return for court proceedings on April 27, when a guilty plea is anticipated.
An inquiry directed to Davis' attorney, Gabe Banks, went unanswered, while Evins' lawyer, Benjamin Alper, acknowledged his client's upcoming plea but refrained from additional commentary.
The complaint clarifies that neither of the NFL players authorized Davis and Evins to secure loans, which were procured using deceptive tactics that included fake driver's licenses bearing online photos of the athletes. This extensive scheme allowed the duo to rake in close to $20 million via 13 fraudulent loans, funds they allegedly utilized for personal luxuries including real estate, jewelry, and automobiles.
Notably, Davis is a national champion with the Crimson Tide, having played a role in their celebrated 2010 season.
