In Houston, two individuals have pleaded guilty in a significant mail theft and credit card fraud operation, as announced by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Bradley Kane Zarco, aged 39, and Travis Castaneda Qawasmeh, aged 28, both residents of Houston, acknowledged their role in a scheme that involved stealing U.S. mail, including new credit cards and bank statements meant for legitimate account holders. They used the stolen data to activate credit cards, boost credit limits, and change account details fraudulently. These cards facilitated the purchase of goods, services, gift cards, and cash at retail establishments.
Over a period of six months, the defendants were responsible for the activation of at least 120 stolen credit cards, leading to losses approximating $1 million for Chase Bank. Three others had also entered guilty pleas earlier: Christopher McGee, 43, Daniel Sanchez, 37, both from Houston, and Nigerian citizen Omokehinde Muyiwa Oyegoke-Tewogbade, 64, who was residing illegally in Houston.
The pleas were accepted by U.S. District Judge Andrew S. Hanen, with sentencing scheduled for August 11. The conspiracy charge in this case could result in a maximum prison sentence of five years and a possible fine of up to $1 million. McGee also pled guilty to one count of aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory two-year prison term, consecutive to any other sentence.
Daniel Sanchez has already received a sentence in February, serving 41 months in prison. Except for Qawasmeh, who received permission to remain on bond, all other individuals involved are in custody.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Lansden handling the prosecution.