Jeanette Man Pleads Guilty To Stealing Checks From Mail Boxes
PITTSBURGH, Pa. ‑ A resident of Jeannette, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of mail, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
John Jacob Lewis, 36, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Alan N. Bloch.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Lewis stole personal checks from mail placed in residential mailboxes in Westmoreland County area, which he later negotiated at Walmart stores.
Judge Bloch scheduled sentencing for May 12, 2011. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Lewis will remain in state custody pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of John Jacob Lewis, Jr.
