Atticus Sliter-Matias, a 27-year-old Ohio resident, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of mail fraud in a scheme that duped eBay buyers out of thousands of dollars.
The indictment, returned on February 7, accuses Sliter-Matias of advertising electronic devices and other items for sale on numerous eBay accounts between June 2015 and July 5, 2016. However, instead of sending the purchased merchandise, Sliter-Matias mailed empty packages through the US Postal Service to the victims.
Sliter-Matias allegedly used the proceeds from these fraudulent sales to purchase gold and silver bars and coins. The indictment reveals a brazen scheme that left victims with nothing but empty boxes and a stack of worthless coins.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based on the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shardul S. Desai is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Sliter-Matias’s scheme highlights the dangers of online shopping and the importance of being cautious when purchasing from unknown sellers. With the rise of e-commerce, consumers must be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Related Federal Cases
- Atticus Sliter-Matias, eBay Fraud Scheme, OH 2016 · Virginia
- Emily Wilson, Investment Adviser Fraud, Pennsylvania, 2023 · Virginia
- Alexander Ortega, Bank Fraud, Pennsylvania 2024 · Washington
- Tamela Lee, Honest Services Mail and Wire Fraud, Ohio 2024 · Pennsylvania
- Gerardo Heriberto Nuñez Nuñez, Elder Fraud Scheme, Boston MA, 2026 · Pennsylvania
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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