⏱ 2 min read
John Patrick Best and Kevin Douglas Padgett, two men from Georgia and Alabama, have been charged in federal court for their alleged roles in a scheme to acquire and sell counterfeit United States postage stamps. The scheme, which involved buying and distributing large quantities of fake stamps, is said to have netted the pair approximately $1.7 million. The charges were brought on April 21, 2026, in federal court. Best and Padgett are accused of using multiple bank accounts to launder their ill-gotten gains.
The indictment charges Best with conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, possession with intent to sell counterfeit postage stamps, concealment money laundering, and spending money laundering. Both men are also charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering. The US Postal Inspection Service, IRS Criminal Investigation, and other federal agencies worked together to bring the allegations to light.
The US Postal Service has condemned the use of counterfeit postage, saying it undermines trust in the USPS brand. The agency has vowed to work with law enforcement partners to disrupt these criminal schemes and bring those responsible to justice. The case highlights the strong partnership between federal law enforcement agencies and the US Attorney’s office in protecting the US mail and financial system.
The investigation was led by the US Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the IRS Criminal Investigation and other agencies. The US Attorney’s office has praised the work of the investigators, saying it reflects a strong commitment to protecting the US mail and financial system.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: Alabama
- Location: AL
- Source: DOJ Press Release
