Following investigations over several months, 11 individuals were recently indicted for 185 charges. Multiple criminal law enforcement agencies in Colorado took part in the inquiry into the activities of the group that allegedly stole financial and personal information of over 400 businesses and individuals. It is further alleged that the stolen information was used to illegally obtain a significant amount of money.
Among those indicted were a 36-year-old man and a 48-year-old woman who authorities identified as the ringleaders. According to court documents, the group’s activities started in 2016. They allegedly focused on stealing mail to obtain business checks and personal information. Authorities claim the accused individuals then used that information to make or alter checks, which were then cashed at credit unions and banks in Colorado.
Further allegations state that the illegally obtained money was used to purchase drugs such as heroin and methamphetamine. Sometimes, investigators say, stolen or counterfeit checks and illegally obtained information were used to barter for drugs that were then provided in exchange. According to the office of the district attorney, the two ringleaders now each face a charge of violating Colorado’s Organized Crime Control Act along with other felonies.
The criminal charges these Colorado residents face can have severe long-term consequences. The most logical step for anybody who is indicted on drug charges and other felonies might be to retain the services of an experienced criminal law defense attorney who understands what is at stake. A lawyer will know what it takes to defend anybody facing such charges and will do whatever he or she can to protect the client from overly harsh punishment.
Source: Denver, CO Patch, “Denver Indictment Charges 11 In Stolen Mail/Drug Ring“, Colin Minor, May 24, 2017
