Several individuals have been arrested in connection with a mail theft operation that has impacted thousands of residents in Palm Beach County, according to the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office.
This development follows a series of mail fraud cases reported by WPTV, including a notable incident involving a Boynton Beach woman who allegedly lost $50,000 in a check-washing scheme.
Five suspects have been identified in the racketeering scheme: Jordan St. Val, Dario Cadet, Billy Cadet, Joelson Gabrius, and Mozelle Estica, all aged between 20 and 24. They face charges of racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering, fraudulent use of personal identification, and theft.
Using stolen mail carrier keys, the group allegedly accessed bulk mail bins overnight, stealing mail from various cities including Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and Wellington. Prosecutors claim they specifically targeted envelopes containing utility bills and credit card payments. The stolen checks were then “washed,” altering both the amounts and payees.
The case has been dubbed “Operation Checkmate,” with prosecutors indicating that additional arrests are anticipated as the investigation continues.