Former Fayetteville Postal Worker Sentenced for Stealing $750,000 in Government Checks

RALEIGH, N.C. – A former Fayetteville postal worker, Zerion Marcos Franklin, has been sentenced to 48 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for stealing over $750,000 in U.S. Treasury checks. Franklin must also pay restitution to the U.S. Treasury.

Public Trust Violated

“Our American postal service is a public trust, staffed with civil servants bound to prioritize the public’s interests above personal gain,” said U.S. Attorney Michael F. Easley, Jr. “While the vast majority of postal employees uphold their oaths with integrity, this individual violated that trust, stealing from hardworking taxpayers. The message is clear: steal mail, face prison.”

Discovery During Traffic Stop

The investigation began in June 2024, when Fayetteville Police conducted a traffic stop of Franklin’s vehicle. Officers observed drug paraphernalia in plain view, prompting a search of his vehicle that uncovered 47 U.S. Treasury checks worth over $750,000. Also found were marijuana packaged for sale, a loaded 9mm handgun, and more than $22,000 in cash.

The stolen checks, dated between April and May 2023, included federal tax refunds, VA benefits, and Social Security disability payments.

Altered Checks and Victim Impact

Investigators found Franklin altered checks to make himself the payee. In one case, an elderly resident of New Hanover County reported her tax refund check stolen from the mail. Franklin cashed the altered check at a Fayetteville Walmart in May 2023. This and other thefts disrupted the mail stream, affecting numerous taxpayers reliant on critical federal funds.

Strong Collaboration to Ensure Accountability

“This case exemplifies the commitment of our law enforcement partners to uphold the integrity of the U.S. Postal Service,” said Kathleen Woodson, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Office of Inspector General. “Postal employees take great pride in delivering for the American public, and those who betray this trust will be held accountable.”

The investigation involved the Fayetteville Police Department and the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General. Prosecutors worked with law enforcement to bring Franklin to justice.

Sentencing and Restitution

United States District Judge James C. Dever III sentenced Franklin, emphasizing the seriousness of his crimes. Franklin faces 48 months in federal prison, three years of supervised release, and restitution payments to the U.S. Treasury.

Access to Case Details

Further details and court documents can be accessed on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or through PACER by referencing Case No. 5:24-CR-105-D.