Five sisters charged in $1M mail fraud scheme across eight states

Five sisters charged in $1M mail fraud scheme across eight states

Five sisters from Washington are facing up to 20 years in federal prison for running a $1 million mail fraud scheme over two years. The sisters—Dunia Almezal, 29, Layla Almansuri, 27, Shahad Almansuri, 33, Raghad Almansuri, 32, and Nejoom Almansuri, 25—are accused of committing fraud by making fraudulent returns for refunds.

The sisters allegedly bought items online. After that requested return shipping labels. Finally, they scanned these at self-service kiosks without actually mailing the items back. They obtained refunds online and later returned the items in-store to get another refund.

Investigators say the sisters made returns in several states. The states include Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Also, they even traveled across states for one-day trips to make returns, trying to avoid detection.

Federal agents seized approximately $500,000 in cash and $500,000 worth of gold jewelry. In addition, five Teslas, and over $100,000 in activewear merchandise from the sisters.

They face 25 counts of mail fraud and conspiracy to commit mail fraud. They have pleaded not guilty and have been released with a promise to appear in future court dates and surrender their passports.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Yemini stated, “This fraud cost retailers significant amounts, impacting their operations.”

HSI Special Agent Robert Hammer said, “Organized retail theft for profit has been rising, and this case highlights the extent of the problem.”

The trial is scheduled for August 19.

Source: KOMO News

Five sisters charged in $1M mail fraud scheme across eight states