Naples, Florida—The United States Postal Inspection Service has arrested five individuals accused of conspiring with convicted felon Lori Ann Talens to use counterfeit coupons. Those arrested include:
- Melissa Apodaca (Colorado)
- Cindi Swindle (Florida)
- Jennifer Synder (Texas)
- Amber Teague (Kentucky)
- Sherise Williams (Florida)
They each have been charged with:
- Mail fraud
- Wire fraud
- Conspiracy
If convicted, they face lengthy prison terms and substantial financial penalties. Lori Ann Talens is currently serving a 12-year prison term and has been ordered to pay $31 million in restitution. Individuals must be considered innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Coupon Information Center (CIC) provided support to law enforcement authorities for this case. CIC’s Executive Director Bud Miller, CPP, stated, “CIC Members deeply appreciate the persistent efforts of the US Postal Inspection Service and the US Attorney’s Office on this case,” said CIC’s Executive Director Bud Miller, CPP. “We look forward to justice being served.”
The CIC urges industry participants to review and implement loss prevention technologies that are available, including Positive Offer Files, the CIC Early Warning File, AI (8112) barcodes and the CIC® Suspect Coupon Checker App. These technologies can be an integral part of a layered defense that will substantially reduce your vulnerability to fraud.
The CIC is a not-for-profit association of proactive manufacturers dedicated to supporting coupon and other promotion integrity efforts. Please contact the CIC if interested in membership.
Contact CIC if you are aware of illegal coupon activities: https://couponinformationcenter.com/contact-us/.
Retailers: Scan this QR code to register for CIC’s Suspect Coupon Checker App. It’s Free!
