PITTSBURGH, PA – Joshua Buice, 36, of Atlanta, Georgia, is facing federal charges after being indicted by a grand jury in Pittsburgh for his alleged role in a sophisticated check fraud scheme. The indictment, unsealed today, details a conspiracy to steal mail and alter checks, ripping off businesses across state lines.
According to federal prosecutors, Buice conspired with others from approximately April 2019 through January 2020 to pilfer mail specifically targeting checks drawn on accounts of businesses engaged in interstate commerce. These weren’t checks from individuals; they were hitting legitimate companies, then insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. This wasn’t some small-time operation.
The scheme involved more than just stealing the checks. Buice and his co-conspirators allegedly altered the stolen checks, changing the names of the payees to those of recruited individuals. These individuals then cashed the fraudulent checks, effectively laundering stolen funds. The indictment charges Buice with one count of conspiracy to commit offenses against the United States.
Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced the indictment, signaling a serious crackdown on mail fraud in the region. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Czarnecki is leading the prosecution, promising a vigorous pursuit of justice. If convicted, Buice faces a maximum total sentence of 5 years in prison, along with a hefty fine of $250,000.
The investigation was a joint effort between the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The agencies worked together to unravel the scheme, track the fraudulent checks, and ultimately identify and indict Buice. This case highlights the continued threat of mail fraud and the importance of interagency cooperation.
It’s crucial to remember that an indictment is simply an accusation. Joshua Buice is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The government bears the burden of proof, and Buice has the right to a fair trial to defend himself against these charges. The sentencing, should Buice be convicted, will be determined based on the severity of the crime and any prior criminal history.
Related Federal Cases
- Sark Wire Corporation, PPP Fraud, Albany NY, 2023 · Pennsylvania
- James Pavlounis, Social Security Disability Benefits Fraud, New Roc… · Pennsylvania
- Emily Wilson, Investment Adviser Fraud, Pennsylvania, 2023 · Georgia
- June Gibbs-Brown, Healthcare Fraud Enforcement, Washington DC, 1993 · Pennsylvania
- June Gibbs Brown, Health Care Fraud Fighter, Washington DC, 2023 · Pennsylvania
Key Facts
- Agency: U.S. Secret Service
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Press Release
Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free
Browse More
