ST. LOUIS – The grimy streets of St. Louis have once again been witness to a federal crime that’s as brazen as it is heinous. Dareon Graham, a 23-year-old resident of Ferguson, was sentenced this week to a staggering 27 months in prison for orchestrating a mail theft conspiracy that robbed the U.S. Postal Service and its customers blind.
In what has been labeled a statement against such crimes, U.S. District Judge Matthew T. Schelp also demanded that Graham repay $46,434 to his victims. The court’s action comes in response to a scheme where Graham, using a stolen key, opened mail collection boxes and directed his codefendant Tyrell Hardin to steal checks from within.
Graham then altered these checks, depositing them into bank accounts of unsuspecting account holders, who were unknowingly aiding the fraud. The total amount of fraudulent transactions exceeded $103,457, with Graham pocketing $46,434 in proceeds before his capture.
Acting Inspector in Charge John Jackman of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service emphasized that mail theft will not be tolerated. ‘The Postal Inspection Service will continue to work with law enforcement agencies to ensure justice for those victimized by postal crimes,’ said Jackman.
The Graham case highlights a concerning trend, as mail theft incidents and attacks on Postal Service employees have been on the rise. Between May 12, 2023, and March 2024, there were 1,025 arrests for mail theft and 213 for robberies related to postal workers. The Postal Service has stepped up security measures in response.
Graham’s street-smart operation didn’t go unnoticed, as the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, alongside local police departments, worked together to bring him to justice. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Clow prosecuted the case, which now serves as a stark reminder of the consequences for those who dare to prey on innocent victims through organized crime.
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Key Facts
- State: Missouri
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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