Postal Worker Convicted for Stealing and Forging $1.7 Million in Checks
Hachikosela Muchimba, a postal worker, was convicted of stealing and depositing 98 forged checks worth nearly $1.7 million. Investigators revealed his extensive fraudulent scheme spanning from 2021 to 2022, during which he obtained U.S. citizenship while concealing his criminal activities. He faces sentencing on August 8 for multiple charges related to mail theft and fraud.
A postal carrier, Hachikosela Muchimba, was convicted of stealing and forging checks totaling nearly $1.7 million. According to federal prosecutors, Muchimba, 44, committed mail theft and fraud while becoming a U.S. citizen. On March 14, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced the jury’s verdict against him.
Originally, prosecutors offered Muchimba a plea deal, which he refused, instead attempting to flee to Zambia with $2,000 in his possession. Investigators apprehended him at the airport. The scheme reportedly started in January 2023 when a victim noticed a U.S. Treasury check had been deposited in Muchimba’s name, prompting an investigation.
Further inquiries revealed Muchimba, with assistance from a co-worker, had been stealing checks from his mail route and depositing them into bank accounts he controlled since 2021. Of the 98 stolen checks, 90 were U.S. Treasury checks, with one check valued at $415,173.53. Muchimba was caught on surveillance footage withdrawing money from ATMs in his USPS uniform.
The investigation detailed how Muchimba funded a luxurious lifestyle with the proceeds from these stolen checks. His expenditures included over $14,000 at the Bvlgari Resort in Bali and payments to his co-conspirator for assistance in his schemes.
In September 2021, after the thefts began, Muchimba applied for U.S. citizenship, falsely indicating he had not engaged in criminal activity. Despite his fraudulent activities, he became a citizen in May 2022, benefiting over $450,000 from the mail theft.
Muchimba has been found guilty of multiple charges, including conspiracy, theft of mail, bank fraud, and unlawful procurement of citizenship. He is scheduled for sentencing on August 8.
Hachikosela Muchimba’s conviction demonstrates the severe consequences of engaging in fraudulent activities, particularly within public service roles. His illicit actions not only resulted in significant financial gains but also in misleading government officials during his application for citizenship. The case underscores the importance of accountability and integrity among public employees.
Original Source: www.miamiherald.com
