Michael Mayfield, Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, Georgia 2024

Grimy Times Exclusive: Michael Mayfield, a 55-year-old former environmental manager from Flowery Branch, Georgia, has pleaded guilty to orchestrating a more than one-million-dollar wire fraud scheme that defrauded his employer, Mars Wrigley.

According to U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan, Mayfield stole over $1 million from his employer in connection with environmental and recycling programs. ‘Mayfield stole over one million dollars from his employer related to environmental and recycling programs,’ Buchanan said. ‘After being entrusted with a fiduciary role, he betrayed that trust and demonstrated that he cared more about his personal gain than the faith his employer placed in him.’

Mayfield’s scheme involved diverting rebate checks worth over $500,000 to his own company, WWJ Recycling, and submitting false invoices from ASA Safety Supply, a supplier to Mars Wrigley, totaling over $199,000. He also used the funds to pay for personal expenses, including a $100,000 hunting trip, a $80,000 donation to his church, and over $200,000 in personal checks.

The FBI, which investigated the case, described Mayfield’s actions as a betrayal not only of his employer but also of its customers. ‘Michael Mayfield not only betrayed his employer, but his actions ultimately increased the costs of business not only for the company but it’s customers too,’ said FBI Atlanta Assistant Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke. ‘The FBI is committed following every lead to bring white-collar criminals like Mayfield to face justice.’

Mayfield pleaded guilty on August 19, 2024, to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and is scheduled to be sentenced on December 2, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Richard W. Story in Gainesville, Georgia.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Huber. For further information, contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016.

Federal authorities have arrested numerous individuals in recent years for committing white-collar crimes, including wire fraud. The case of Michael Mayfield highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in business dealings.

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