New Orleans – The U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser has dropped the hammer on Penny Johnson, 52, of Avondale, Louisiana, charging her with one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and seven counts of mail fraud.
Johnson is accused of participating in a brazen ‘work at home’ re-shipping scam that funneled goods purchased online through eBay to her residence. According to the indictment, she would inspect these items before re-routing them to fraudsters, effectively aiding in the scam’s operation.
Despite being warned by United States Postal inspectors about facilitating fraud against eBay and other customers, Johnson persisted. When questioned later, she made false statements to inspectors, doubling down on her involvement.
The indictment spells out serious consequences for Johnson. She faces a sentence of up to five years in prison for the conspiracy charge and an additional twenty years per mail fraud count, totaling a potential 135-year sentence. She also risks fines reaching $250,000 and up to three years of supervised release after her supposed freedom.
U.S. Attorney Strasser commended the United States Postal Inspection Service for their thorough investigation into this fraudulent scheme. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera is leading the prosecution against Johnson.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the lengths some will go to in the name of financial gain, and the unwavering efforts of law enforcement to protect consumers from such deceptive practices.
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Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes|Cybercrime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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