What is mail fraud?
The Congressional Research Service discusses everything you need to know about mail fraud. First, what is it? Mail fraud occurs when you use the U.S. postal system in the furtherance of a fraudulent scheme. For example, it includes sending out letters trying to part someone from their assets. It also includes postcards that promise honest services which the sender has no intention of following through on.
The legal system classifies mail fraud as a felony due to its use of the U.S. postal system. This is government property. As such, any crime related to it – down to and including vandalizing mailboxes – is a federal crime.
How much will a conviction cost?
As such, a conviction comes with hefty consequences. You may face up to 20 years in prison. You could also face a fine of up to $250,000 for individuals. For organizations, this skyrockets to a maximum of $500,000. You may face even heftier penalties if you targeted a financial institution. This can net up to 30 years in prison and a maximum fine of $1 million.
Needless to say, facing any of these penalties can negatively change your life in a big way. Thus, if you face charges of mail fraud, you want to act quickly to defend yourself.
