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Ecorse Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Mail Fraud Scheme
Detroit, MI – In a shocking turn of events, Phillip E. Garza, a 53-year-old resident of Ecorse, Michigan, has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for his involvement in a mail fraud scheme. The sentencing, which was delayed due to the pandemic, took place on an undisclosed date.
According to court records, Garza was employed by Hankyu Hanshin Express (USA) Inc., a transportation and logistics services company based in suburban Chicago. As an ocean export specialist, Garza was responsible for arranging the shipment of sea-going goods through third-party shippers. However, Garza had other plans.
Using his position, Garza created a shell company called El Centro Express, which was made to appear as a legitimate third-party shipper. Between October 2011 and May 2019, Garza submitted over 2,300 invoices to HHE on the letterhead of El Centro Express, totaling over $1.1 million in checks. These checks were mailed to a post office box opened by Garza in Taylor, Michigan.
The investigation revealed that Garza used the funds from HHE to pay personal expenses, including credit card issuers ($80,000), monthly car payments ($55,000), phone companies and cable and Internet service providers ($39,000), and personal loans. He also used the funds for medical expenses and dining out.
The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Hiyama. United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced the sentencing, stating that Garza’s actions were a clear abuse of his position and a breach of trust.
The defendant’s sentencing is a testament to the FBI’s dedication to rooting out corruption and ensuring that those who abuse their positions are held accountable. Garza’s case serves as a reminder that white-collar crimes can have serious consequences, and those who engage in such activities will be brought to justice.
Garza’s exact date of sentencing is not specified, but it is clear that he has been held accountable for his actions. As the case comes to a close, it is essential to remember that the consequences of mail fraud can be severe, and those who engage in such activities will face the full force of the law.
Key Facts
- State: Michigan
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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