FORMER POSTAL EMPLOYEE INDICTED FOR STEALING STAMP INVENTORY

TUCSON, Ariz. – On June 7, 2012 a federal grand jury in Tucson returned a one count indictment against Cheryl A. Molera, 53, of Tucson, for theft of public money or property.

The indictment alleges that Molera, while employed by the U.S. Postal Service as a window service technician, stole stamp inventory that was in her possession and care by using the Postal Service’s point of sale system to manipulate the stamp inventory control system. The indictment alleges that the stamp inventory was valued at $76,526.94. Molera appeared in court on June 22, 2012, and was released on her promise to appear at all future court appearances and other conditions set by the court.

A conviction for theft of public money or property carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. In determining an actual sentence, U.S. District Judge Cindy K. Jorgenson will consult the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide appropriate sentencing ranges. The judge, however, is not bound by those guidelines in determining a sentence.

An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until competent evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

            The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the U. S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General. The prosecution is being handled by Sandra M. Hansen, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Tucson.

CASE NUMBER:                  CR-12-1285-TUC-CKJ
RELEASE NUMBER:           2012-162(Molera)

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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az