Jill Marie Rousse, Theft of Postal Funds, Minnesota 2013

MINNEAPOLIS—Yesterday in federal court, Jill Marie Rousse, a former postmaster from Itasca County, Minnesota, pleaded guilty to stealing funds from the Marble Post Office. Rousse, age 39, of Calumet, Minnesota, admitted to taking cash from the office’s cash drawer and issuing money orders in her own name.

Rousse, who was indicted on June 10, 2013, entered her plea before United States District Judge Ann D. Montgomery. In her plea agreement, Rousse admitted to stealing money from the post office between August 2011 and October 2012. She also admitted to falsifying reports regarding the sale of money orders and postage in order to conceal her theft.

An audit of the post office identified shortages totaling $9,031.43 in cash and stamps. This amount represents the extent of Rousse’s theft and the total amount she stole from the post office.

Rousse faces a potential maximum penalty of ten years in prison for her crime. Judge Montgomery will determine her sentence at a future hearing, yet to be scheduled. The case is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Service-Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lola Velazquez-Aguilu.

The theft of postal funds is a serious offense that undermines the public’s trust in the postal service. Rousse’s actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for the law and the duties of her position as postmaster.

The Marble Post Office serves the community of Marble, Minnesota, and provides essential services to the residents of Itasca County. The theft of postal funds not only affects the post office but also the community as a whole.

Rousse’s guilty plea marks the end of a lengthy investigation and the beginning of the sentencing process. Judge Montgomery will consider various factors when determining Rousse’s sentence, including the severity of her crime and her potential rehabilitation.

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