The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has issued a removal and prohibition order against Sandra Ruiz.

Ruiz was an assistant cashier and head teller of the International Bank of Commerce, Laredo, TX.

Ruiz consented to the order without admitting or denying culpability. The FDIC's action is based on allegations that Ruiz embezzled funds and falsified bank records.

Ruiz is prohibited from further participation in the banking industry without FDIC approval.

The order is attached.

• Docket No. FDIC-02-196e

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Congress created the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation in 1933 to restore public confidence in the nation's banking system. The FDIC insures deposits at the nation's 9,182 banks and savings associations and it promotes the safety and soundness of these institutions by identifying, monitoring and addressing risks to which they are exposed. The FDIC receives no federal tax dollars - insured financial institutions fund its operations.

FDIC press releases and other information are available on the Internet via the World Wide Web at www.fdic.gov and may also be obtained through the FDIC's Public Information Center (877-275-3342 or (703) 562-2200).