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Defendant Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud Scheme in West Virginia
In a shocking turn of events, Robert Dale Adkins, a 75-year-old Ona man, has pleaded guilty to a federal mail fraud crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
According to court documents, Adkins wrote and signed nearly $500,000 in unauthorized checks on the church’s account for his personal benefit. Those checks went to pay personal creditors, and Adkins would then mail the checks without the knowledge or approval of the church membership or any board member.
Between 2012 and December 2018, Adkins was the treasurer for a church near Ona, Cabell County, West Virginia. As treasurer, Adkins had access to the church’s checking account and was authorized to sign checks from that account on behalf of the church.
“You’re supposed to fill – not empty – the offering plate. Stealing from a place of worship for personal benefit – BAD IDEA,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
Adkins faces up to 20 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine when he is sentenced on May 18, 2020. He also will be required to pay restitution in the amount of $487,488.92 to the church, and is subject to forfeiture of an equal amount to the United States.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Greg McVey is handling the prosecution.
Adkins’ actions have left the community in shock, and his sentencing is expected to bring some sense of closure for the church and its members.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in financial dealings, especially in institutions of faith.
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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