Houston woman sentenced to more than five years in federal prison for a stolen mail fraud scheme

Houston, Texas – A 34-year-old Houston resident, Britni Marie Johnson, has been sentenced to 65 months in federal prison for her role in a mail fraud operation involving stolen checks and forged identity documents. The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Fraud and Identity Theft Leave Lasting Harm

Johnson pleaded guilty on July 29, admitting to a scheme where she stole checks from the mail and used fake identification documents to cash them. During the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Lee H. Rosenthal described Johnson as “intelligent and capable”, yet emphasized that her actions created widespread harm.

“The court noted that mail and identity theft often leave those affected feeling violated,” the announcement stated, and added that “her conduct made the lives of innocent victims more difficult.”

The court ordered that Johnson also serve three years of supervised release following her prison term and pay approximately $1,448.65 in restitution to her victims.

Johnson is currently in custody and will be transferred to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility at a later date.

Federal and Local Agencies Collaborated in the Case

The investigation into Johnson’s actions was led by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which routinely handles federal mail-related crimes. The Galveston County Sheriff’s Office also provided assistance during the investigation.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Hileman, who has handled numerous fraud-related federal cases across the district.

This sentencing serves as a reminder that fraudulent schemes involving stolen mail and identity documents are serious federal crimes that carry significant penalties, especially when they disrupt the lives of multiple victims.