A brazen scheme to steal identities and swindle unsuspecting victims has come to an end in Collinsville, Illinois, with the guilty plea of Michael Alan Carver, 29.
Carver, a Collinsville resident, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud in a scheme that used unauthorized access devices and identity theft to obtain money and property, according to the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Stephen R. Wigginton.
The scheme, which involved the theft of mail from mailboxes, allowed a conspirator to obtain credit cards in the names of other persons without their authorization. The credit cards were then used to make purchases, with some of the fraudulently obtained items shipped or mailed to Carver’s residence. Carver obtained a percentage of the value of the unauthorized credit cards, further complicating the web of deceit.
The investigation, led by the Collinsville Police Department, the Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigations, and the United States Secret Service, exposed a disturbing pattern of behavior that put the identities and financial security of countless individuals at risk.
As part of his plea, Carver admitted to assisting another individual in stealing mail from mailboxes, which contained sensitive personal information, including names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers. This information was then used to apply for and obtain credit cards without authorization.
Carver now faces a federal prison sentence of up to 20 years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release after serving his sentence, and mandatory restitution. Sentencing has been scheduled for August 2, 2015.
The case is a stark reminder of the dangers of identity theft and the importance of vigilance in protecting one’s personal and financial information. As the investigation and prosecution of these crimes continue, it is clear that those who engage in such activities will be held accountable for their actions.
Key Facts
- State: Illinois
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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