Hachikosela Muchimba, a postal worker, was convicted for stealing nearly $1.7 million in checks and forging them while fraudulently obtaining U.S. citizenship. Muchimba’s actions involved a complex scheme supported by a co-worker and benefited him with significant wealth. He faces multiple charges and is scheduled for sentencing on August 8, 2023.
A postal worker, Hachikosela Muchimba, was convicted for stealing and forging checks totaling nearly $1.7 million from the mail while simultaneously becoming a U.S. citizen. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, Muchimba is 44 years old and faced multiple charges related to fraud and mail theft, with the verdict announced on March 14.
Muchimba had previously declined a plea deal and attempted to flee to Zambia, but he was apprehended at the airport with $2,000 in cash. His criminal activities came to light in January 2023 when a resident on his mail route discovered a stolen U.S. Treasury check deposited under Muchimba’s name. Investigators later revealed a scheme starting in 2021, where he, with assistance from a co-worker, stole checks meant for individuals on his route, forged them, and deposited them into seven of his own bank accounts.
Out of 98 checks stolen, 90 were U.S. Treasury checks, including one that amounted to $415,173.53. Surveillance footage captured Muchimba withdrawing money from ATMs while in his postal uniform. He utilized the stolen funds to support a lavish lifestyle, spending over $14,000 at the Bvlgari Resort in Bali, among other luxuries. Additionally, he reportedly paid a co-conspirator $1,000 for assistance with the thefts.
In September 2021, amid his illicit activities, Muchimba began the process of applying for U.S. citizenship while falsely answering application questions regarding his criminal history. He later became a citizen in May 2022, having defrauded the government at a substantial profit of over $450,000 from his mail theft scheme. Ultimately, he was convicted on numerous charges including conspiracy to commit theft, bank fraud, and unlawful procurement of citizenship.
Muchimba’s sentencing is scheduled for August 8, 2023, marking the culmination of a significant fraudulent endeavor that exploited his position as a postal worker.
Hachikosela Muchimba, a postal worker, was found guilty of orchestrating an extensive theft and forgery scheme involving nearly $1.7 million in checks. His deceptive activities included fraudulently obtaining U.S. citizenship while conducting unlawful actions. The case underscores significant issues of integrity and trust in postal services, drawing attention to legal ramifications for fraudulent behavior. Muchimba’s sentencing is set for August, emphasizing accountability for his offenses.
Original Source: www.miamiherald.com
