In a recent development, a U.S. Postal Carrier and her husband have pleaded guilty to federal charges for their involvement in an extensive mail theft scheme. The pair, Kiara Padgett and Dominique Dunlap, appeared in federal court in Charlotte, North Carolina, where they admitted to conspiring to commit bank fraud. Padgett, who worked as a mail carrier, abused her position to steal incoming and outgoing checks from businesses and individuals between August 2021 and November 2022. These stolen checks, with a total face value exceeding $8.8 million, were then sold to other individuals, effectively fueling a large-scale fraud operation. Their actions have brought significant consequences upon not only themselves but also implicated another individual, Terrell Alexander Hager, Jr., who had also previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud. The severity of these charges could result in a maximum prison term of 30 years and a $1 million fine for Padgett, Dunlap, and Hager, Jr. As we investigate this case further, we commend the efforts of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the United States Postal Service Office of the Inspector General, and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department for their diligent work in this matter.
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U.S. Postal Carrier Pleads Guilty in Mail Theft Scheme
Brief Summary of the Case
In a recent case of mail theft, a U.S. Postal Carrier and her husband have pleaded guilty to federal charges for conspiring to commit an extensive mail theft scheme. Kiara Padgett, the postal carrier, and her spouse, Dominique Dunlap, admitted their involvement in the scheme. The case was announced by Dena J. King, the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina, along with other law enforcement agencies. The couple’s actions involved stealing incoming and outgoing checks, which were then sold to other individuals, resulting in a total stolen value of over $8.8 million.
Charges and Pleas
Kiara Padgett, the U.S. Postal Carrier, and her husband, Dominique Dunlap, have pleaded guilty to federal charges relating to conspiracy to commit bank fraud. Dunlap also pleaded guilty to four counts of possession of stolen mail. Their guilty pleas indicate their acknowledgment of involvement in the mail theft scheme.
Law Enforcement Agencies Involved
The investigation into the mail theft scheme was conducted by multiple law enforcement agencies. Tommy D. Coke, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which oversees Charlotte, Jeff Krafels, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General (USPS-OIG) for the Mid-Atlantic Area Field Office (MAAFO), which also oversees Charlotte, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) were involved in the investigation.
Details of the Mail Theft Scheme
Kiara Padgett, as a U.S. Postal Carrier, had access to incoming and outgoing mail. From August 2021 to November 2022, Padgett used her position to steal checks from businesses and individuals. She then sold these stolen checks with the help of her husband, Dominique Dunlap, who acted as an intermediary. The stolen checks were sold to various individuals, including Terrell Alexander Hager, Jr. The scheme was carried out over a period of approximately 15 months.
Value of Stolen Checks
The total face value of the stolen checks in this mail theft scheme amounted to over $8.8 million. These checks were stolen by Kiara Padgett during the course of her employment as a U.S. Postal Carrier. The significant value of the stolen checks highlights the extent and impact of the crime committed.
Involvement of Co-Conspirators
Co-conspirators played a role in the mail theft scheme. Dominique Dunlap, the husband of Kiara Padgett, acted as an intermediary in the sale of the stolen checks. He facilitated the transactions between Padgett and other individuals, including Terrell Alexander Hager, Jr. The involvement of co-conspirators demonstrates the collaborative nature of the scheme.
Bank Fraud Charges
As part of the mail theft scheme, Kiara Padgett and Dominique Dunlap have been charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud. This charge is a serious offense and carries significant penalties upon conviction. The guilty pleas entered by both individuals indicate their acknowledgment of their involvement in bank fraud.
Possession of Stolen Mail Charges
In addition to the charges of bank fraud, Dominique Dunlap has pleaded guilty to four counts of possession of stolen mail. This charge reflects his participation in handling the stolen mail that was obtained through the mail theft scheme. Possession of stolen mail is a federal offense and carries its own set of penalties.
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Potential Sentencing
At this time, a sentencing date has not been set for Kiara Padgett, Dominique Dunlap, and Terrell Alexander Hager, Jr. In regard to the bank fraud conspiracy charge, they face a maximum prison term of 30 years and a $1 million fine. Dunlap, in addition to the bank fraud charge, has the potential to face five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count of possession of stolen mail. The potential sentencing reflects the seriousness of the crimes committed.
Commendations for Law Enforcement Agencies
U.S. Attorney Dena J. King commends the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General, and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department for their thorough investigation of the mail theft scheme. Their diligent efforts led to the successful prosecution of the individuals involved and contributed to safeguarding the integrity of the mail system. The collaboration between these law enforcement agencies highlights their commitment to protecting the public from mail theft and fraudulent activities.
In conclusion, the guilty pleas entered by Kiara Padgett and Dominique Dunlap in the mail theft scheme represent a significant step in bringing justice to the victims. The value of the stolen checks, the involvement of co-conspirators, and the charges of bank fraud and possession of stolen mail demonstrate the severity of their actions. The potential sentencing reflects the gravity of the crimes committed. The commendations for the law enforcement agencies involved acknowledge their dedicated work in investigating and prosecuting this case. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the integrity and security of the mail system to protect individuals, businesses, and the community as a whole from mail theft and fraudulent activities.
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Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdnc/pr/us-postal-carrier-and-husband-plead-guilty-mail-theft-scheme