Kimberly Acevedo and Philip Rich, Mail Fraud and Identity Theft, California 2021

A notorious mail fraud scheme has been busted in West Sacramento, California, with a married couple facing serious charges for stealing identities and raking in cash. Kimberly Acevedo, 50, and Philip Rich, 49, are accused of perpetrating a complex scheme that targeted unsuspecting victims, leaving a trail of financial devastation in its wake.

According to the indictment, between March 2019 and March 2021, Acevedo and Rich allegedly stole U.S. mail, used the stolen information to apply for new credit cards, debit cards, checkbooks, and other financial instruments, and then redirected the victims’ mail to their shared home address. The defendants would then use the contents of the mail to make fraudulent purchases and cash checks.

The scheme, which involved dozens of stolen bank cards, left victims reeling, with many suffering significant financial losses. The indictment alleges that Acevedo and Rich obtained the personally identifiable information (PII) of victims and used it to apply for new financial instruments, which were then sent to the victims’ real home addresses.

The case is the result of a joint investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Yolo County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise N. Yasinow and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. Artuz are handling the prosecution.

If convicted, Acevedo and Rich face a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison for mail fraud, five years in prison for possessing stolen mail, and 10 years in prison for possessing more than 15 unauthorized access devices. They also face a mandatory additional sentence of two years in prison if convicted of aggravated identity theft and a maximum fine of $250,000 on each count.

The charges against Acevedo and Rich are only allegations, and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The court will determine the sentence after considering any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The indictment highlights the importance of protecting personal information and being vigilant about mail and financial security. It also serves as a reminder that law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice.

The case is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of identity theft and mail fraud. As the investigation continues, it is essential to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

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