In a recent order issued by Senior U.S. District Judge Ralph R. Beistline, the government has been instructed to employ alternative victim notification procedures in a 31-count indictment case involving two Fairbanks men. The men, Jared Post and Levi Skulstad, are charged with conspiracy, bank and wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering. Between 2017 and 2021, Post and Skulstad defrauded multiple banks and individuals, raking in a total of at least $500,000. Their scam involved contacting individuals they referred to as “Plays” through social media or in person, convincing them to share their bank account information, and depositing fraudulent checks into their accounts. The involved banks, the victims known as “Plays,” and the initial victim whose checks were stolen suffered significant financial losses, while Post and Skulstad profited from their illicit activities. Individuals who suspect they may be victims in these schemes are encouraged to contact the FBI Anchorage Field Office. The victim-witness program of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Alaska, also provides information, services, and support to those affected by federal prosecution. For more information, visit the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Alaska website. Additionally, there are free and confidential resources available, such as the Identity Theft Resource Center and the Federal Trade Commission, which offer guidance and assistance in preventing, recovering from, and protecting against identity theft and scams.
Victim Assistance Advisory
U.S. Attorney’s Office Issues Order for Alternative Victim Notification Procedures
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska has recently issued an order regarding alternative victim notification procedures in a case involving fraud, identity theft, and money laundering. This case involves two individuals from Fairbanks, Jared Post and Levi Skulstad, who are charged with multiple counts, including conspiracy, bank and wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering. The individuals allegedly defrauded multiple banks and individuals between 2017 and 2021, obtaining at least $500,000.
Details of the Fraud Scheme
According to federal court documents, Post and Skulstad targeted vulnerable individuals, whom they referred to as “Plays,” through social media or in-person interactions. They convinced these individuals to share their bank account information under the false pretense of needing to deposit a check into their account. Once the check was deposited, Post or Skulstad would access the individual’s remote banking app and withdraw or transfer the funds electronically. In some cases, they directed the individual to transfer the funds to them through a cash app or Western Union. The checks deposited by Post and Skulstad were stolen and fraudulently altered, and they withdrew the funds before the banks flagged the checks as fraudulent.
Contact Information for Potential Victims
If you believe that you may be a victim in this fraud scheme, it is important to contact the FBI Anchorage Field Office at 907-276-4441. This will allow law enforcement to gather necessary information and investigate the extent of the scheme. It is crucial for victims to come forward, as this will aid in holding the perpetrators accountable and potentially recovering any stolen funds.
Services Provided by the Victim-Witness Program
The victim-witness program of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska is dedicated to providing support, information, and services to individuals who are involved in federal prosecutions. This program aims to ensure that victims of crimes have their voices heard and their rights protected throughout the legal process. Through the victim-witness program, victims can receive updates on their case and access resources that can assist them in navigating the complex legal system.
Resources for Identity Theft
If you suspect that you may be a victim of identity theft, there are resources available to help you navigate this challenging situation. The Identity Theft Resource Center is a non-profit organization that provides information and support for preventing, recovering, and protecting against identity theft. They can be contacted at 888-400-5530 or through their website at https://www.idtheftcenter.org/.
Resources for Reporting Scams
If you have been scammed or suspect that you have encountered fraudulent activities, it is important to report it to the appropriate authorities. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has an Identity Theft website where you can report identity theft and access resources for developing a recovery plan. The website can be found at https://www.identitytheft.gov/#/. Additionally, the FTC provides consumer advice on what to do if you have been scammed. This information can be found on their website at https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-do-if-you-were-scammed. The FTC also maintains a webpage that shares information about different types of scams, which can be helpful in identifying potential fraudulent activities.
Announcement by U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker and FBI Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska and FBI Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the Anchorage Field Office have made an announcement regarding this case. It is important to note that an indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The purpose of the announcement is to inform the public about the ongoing investigation and encourage potential victims to come forward.
Disclaimer of Indictment Allegations
While the indictment in this case presents specific allegations against Jared Post and Levi Skulstad, it is important to remember that they are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The purpose of the indictment is to outline the charges and allegations against the defendants, but the final determination of guilt or innocence rests with the legal proceedings.
Related Content
For additional information and updates on this case, please visit the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-ak/case-updates. This page will provide the latest information on the case, including any developments, court dates, or other relevant information.
Contact Information for the District of Alaska
If you have any questions or need further assistance regarding this case or other matters related to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska, please feel free to contact them at the following:
- Main Office: 222 West 7th Avenue, Room 253, #9 Anchorage, Alaska 99513
- Telephone: 907-271-5071
- Fax Line: 907-271-3224
It is crucial for the public to be informed and engaged in cases involving fraud, identity theft, and money laundering. By staying proactive and reporting any potential fraudulent activities, we can collectively work towards safeguarding our communities and ensuring justice is served.