Montgomery man sentenced for $1 million fraud scheme, illegal possession of firearm

A federal judge has sentenced Robert Milford, 29, to more than eight years in prison for a fraud scheme involving the theft of over $1 million and for illegal possession of a firearm as a felon. 

“This sentence holds Joseph Milford accountable for a scheme that defrauded businesses and financial institutions of more than a million dollars, while also addressing his unlawful possession of firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Kevin Davidson.

“Fraud schemes like this not only cause financial harm but also erode trust in our banking and mail systems. Our office, together with our law enforcement partners, will continue to pursue and prosecute those who engage in this type of criminal conduct.”

An announcement from Davidson stated that the scheme took place from October 2021 through December 2023 as Milford and co-conspirators used messaging apps and social media to solicit stolen checks from the mail. 

The checks were reportedly altered to list those involved as payees before being deposited into bank accounts and then withdrawn or changed into debit cards. 

"A primary component of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service mission is to ensure public trust in the mail,” said Shameka Jackson, Inspector-in-Charge of the Houston Division. “When individuals challenge that mission, Postal Inspectors will aggressively investigate and remain steadfast in our resolve to seek justice to the end.”

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During the investigation it was found that a total of $1,000,238.34 was stolen. 

In July 2023 Milford was stopped in traffic by a Montgomery police officer and found to have three firearms. It was afterwards found that he was a felon and was prohibiting from possessing firearms. 

He pleaded guilty to all charges on May 28 this year and sentenced on Aug. 20. 

“Today’s sentencing sends a strong message to anyone who thinks mail theft and check fraud will go unpunished,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Ulrich of the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General. “Our special agents, along with our federal and local law enforcement partners, will aggressively investigate these federal crimes to protect the sanctity of the U.S. Mail and maintain the public’s trust.”

Milford will serve three years of supervised release after his term is up. 

“These efforts signify what can be accomplished when we work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to combat violent crime,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason Stankiewicz from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Nashville Field Division. “Through this collaboration, we were able to remove another firearm from the hands of a prohibited offender and habitual violator of the law.”