Moorhead Man Faces Federal Charges in Scott County, Statewide Mail Theft

A federal indictment unsealed yesterday charges a 32-year-old Moorhead man in connection with a series of mail thefts in several Minnesota counties, including Scott, in the  fall of 2012.

The indictment charges Justin Lee Feldt with one count of theft of mail, four counts of bank fraud, two counts of aggravated identity theft, and one count of access device fraud. The indictment was unsealed following Feldt’s initial appearance in federal court.

The indictment alleges that between October and November 2012, Feldt stole mail containing blank credit card cash advance checks. Allegedly, he subsequently altered the checks to make them payable to him and then deposited them, later withdrawing the funds. The indictment also alleges that between October 25 and 27, 2012, Feldt used a stolen debit card to purchase various items.

If convicted, Feldt faces a potential maximum penalty of 30 years in prison on each count of bank fraud, 10 years for access device fraud, five years for mail theft, and a mandatory two years for aggravated identity theft. A federal district court judge would determine any sentence.

This case is the result of an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service (“USPIS”) and the sheriff’s offices for Crow Wing, Otter Tail, Pine, and Scott counties. Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Kokkinen is prosecuting the case.