There are numerous ways for people to commit fraud. For example, some people may find themselves facing mail fraud allegations.
They could then be at risk of federal prosecution even if the entire scheme occurs within a single state. Those worried that they may end up implicated in a fraudulent scheme need information as they prepare to protect themselves against the possibility of prosecution.
What is mail fraud?
Mail fraud involves the use of the United States Postal Service (USPS) or other carrier services to engage in inappropriate activity. The use of FedEx or UPS delivery systems to deliver fraudulent documents or inappropriate packages can lead to mail fraud charges. The federal government brings charges because the crime uses infrastructure intended to facilitate interstate commerce.
What are examples of mail fraud?
Mail fraud can involve actively participating in a scheme or agreeing to mail letters on behalf of those engaging in fraudulent activity. Mail fraud could involve health care or health insurance fraud. Health insurance fraud could involve tricking people into supplemental insurance to round out their Medicare coverage or convincing them to participate in programs to acquire medical equipment that they may not actually need.
Mail fraud can also involve tricking people into thinking they inherited money by mailing them a letter or offering to sell land that the party sending a brochure does not actually own. There are types of mail fraud that specifically target businesses, people receiving unemployment insurance, military veterans and property owners.
What are the penalties for mail fraud?
Mail fraud can carry very significant consequences as a federal offense. There are financial consequences, including fines. Most cases of mail fraud can lead to up to $250,000 in fines, but special circumstances can lead to mail fraud fines of up to a million dollars per infraction. The accused party may also have to pay restitution to those affected by the mail fraud scheme.
Mail fraud charges can also lead to prison sentences. Each charge can carry up to 20 years in federal prison. In some cases, probation is an alternative to incarceration.
Those facing allegations of mail fraud may not have been aware of fraudulent activity or may not have intended to break the law. Discussing potential mail fraud charges and other white-collar criminal allegations with a skilled legal team can help people prepare a reasonable defense strategy. Those who respond assertively when accused of mail fraud can potentially avoid the worst possible outcome.