Former Postal Employee Admits to Mail Theft and Fraud Scheme in Baltimore

A former employee of the United States Postal Service has pleaded guilty to federal charges related to a scheme involving mail theft and the fraudulent endorsement of stolen checks. Derrick Stewart, 34, of Baltimore, Maryland, entered his plea in federal court, admitting to multiple offenses committed while he was employed as a clerk at a mail processing and distribution center in Baltimore. The charges include federal mail theft by a postal employee, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft, according to information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland.

Stewart’s criminal activity spanned from September 2022 to December 2023. During this period, he allegedly exploited his position within the postal service to unlawfully take possession of mail, specifically targeting checks. Court documents indicate that Stewart then proceeded to endorse these stolen checks with the names and signatures of the intended recipients, thereby committing identity theft. Surveillance footage reportedly captured Stewart depositing these fraudulently endorsed checks into his personal bank accounts, a key piece of evidence in the investigation.

The scheme unraveled on December 2, 2023, when law enforcement officials executed a search warrant on Stewart shortly after he exited a postal facility. This search led to the recovery of a significant quantity of stolen mail. Authorities found nearly 200 pieces of mail that contained checks with a combined value exceeding $700,000. The guilty plea signifies Stewart’s acknowledgment of his role in these federal offenses.

Stewart now faces serious repercussions for his actions. The potential penalties include a maximum of 27 years in prison. Notably, a mandatory sentence of two years must be served consecutively to any other sentence imposed, specifically for the charge of aggravated identity theft. The date for Stewart’s sentencing has not yet been set. The investigation was a collaborative effort, with U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes commending the investigative work of the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Philip Motsay and Ari D. Evans are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. Residents who suspect mail theft or fraud are encouraged to report such activities. Information on how to report fraud can be found on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office website.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Maryland.

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