Last Updated on: 28th July 2023, 07:22 pm

The Thrilling Truth Behind Mail Fraud and Wire Fraud

Uncovering the Scheme to Defraud

Mail fraud and wire fraud are not just legal jargon; they are the ultimate weapon of federal prosecutors, wielded to bring to justice those who engage in fraudulent activities. Imagine being robbed of your property through deceitful means, without even knowing it. That is the scheme to defraud – the heart of mail fraud.

The perpetrator’s intent to defraud means they intend to be deceitful, sneaky, and dishonest. It is not just about an affirmative misrepresentation or lie; it is the greed and the criminal mindset that propels them to commit such acts.

The target property can be anything – tangible or intangible – such as money, real estate, information, or intellectual property. The law seeks to protect all property rights, and mail fraud is a way to ensure that justice is served.

The Role of Mailing in Mail Fraud

A mailing form a component of the scheme, and the use of mails in furtherance of the scheme is all it takes for the perpetrator to be charged. The mailing need not be an essential element of the scheme, and a fraudulent document need not be mailed or a false representation be made in a letter.

The mail fraud statute applies to a broad range of corporate criminal conduct. Its simplicity and severe penalties make it a favorite of federal prosecutors, who seek to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. In fact, from January through July of 2018, the Department of Justice indicted 292 cases with mail fraud as the lead charge.

The Expanding Reach of Mail Fraud

While the statute is called “mail fraud,” in 1994, Congress expanded it to include the use of “private or commercial interstate carriers,” such as FedEx and UPS. The reach of mail fraud is growing, and no one is safe from its consequences.

High-Profile Prosecutions of Mail Fraud

Mail fraud has been used in some of the most high-profile prosecutions, including the Bernie Madoff case, former Illinois Governor George Ryan, and former U.S. Congresswoman Corrine Brown. The severity of the penalties and the ease of prosecution make it a go-to charge for federal prosecutors.

 Discover What Constitutes Mail Fraud and How to Defend Yourself

Mail fraud is a grave federal crime that can lead to severe penalties. It involves any act of fraud committed through the use of mail communication. Although it shares some similarities with wire fraud, mail fraud must specifically involve physical mail rather than electronic communication methods.

In Alaska, individuals accused of fraudulent scams are often charged with mail fraud. The charges can be brought against anyone who knowingly participates in a mail fraud scheme, including mail couriers who knowingly deliver illegal items.

What Constitutes Mail Fraud?

Mail fraud occurs when a person uses a mail delivery service as part of a fraudulent scheme. The delivery service can be the United States Postal Service or any private carrier like UPS or FedEx. The piece of mail involved in the scheme does not necessarily have to cross state lines to be considered part of a federal mail fraud crime.

Examples of Mail Fraud

Mail fraud is often central to fraudulent schemes. For instance, some organized criminal organizations have been indicted for federal mail fraud charges. Also, receiving payments in the mail that are the proceeds of criminal activities and mailing cash as a bribe to a local official are also considered mail fraud.

Some common forms of mail fraud include fake requests for money that are sent to elderly people. In such cases, fake charities may request donations, or fake companies may ask for payments for services that were never done.

In some cases, mail fraud schemes are more elaborate than a simple written request for money. For example, a person might receive a letter offering a free home inspection. When the inspector shows up, the victim may be asked to pay for home repairs that never get done.

Defending Yourself Against Mail Fraud Charges

If you are accused of mail fraud, it’s possible to argue that the piece of mail in question cannot be traced back to you. In some cases, it may be challenging for prosecutors to prove the exact origin of a package or letter that was dropped off at a post office.

However, it’s critical to understand that mail fraud is a serious crime, and you need to seek the services of a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. They can help you build a strong defense and work to reduce or dismiss the charges against you.

Finally, mail fraud is often linked to schemes that involve sending out fake information about a charitable fund that people can support. This type of mail fraud often targets veterans and people during election season. Make sure to research any charities you plan to support and only give to legitimate organizations.

In conclusion, mail fraud schemes are more prevalent than you might think. Scammers will use various tactics to deceive and manipulate unsuspecting victims, often targeting seniors, veterans, and other vulnerable populations. By staying informed and aware of these common types of mail fraud, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to these scams.