Jasper County, IL – A widespread mail theft and fraud scheme involving over 300 victims has led to federal convictions and sentencing. Detectives with the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office identified Aaron Blake and Emily Sturgis in January 2023 after stolen mail was linked to fraudulent activities. The two were stealing personal information from residential mailboxes, targeting Social Security numbers, credit card details, and checks.
Following an investigation, the case was handed over to U.S. Postal Inspectors in February. Blake pleaded guilty in February 2024 to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft. On September 30, Blake was sentenced to over three years in federal prison and ordered to pay $12,482 in restitution. Sturgis, who pleaded guilty in July, is awaiting sentencing.
Mail theft can result in severe financial damage for victims, often requiring years to recover. Residents are urged to safeguard their mail and monitor financial accounts for suspicious activity. Authorities recommend using a locked mailbox and reporting suspicious behavior to law enforcement.
