COLUMBUS, Ga. — An ex-employee of Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) faces fraud allegations after authorities claim he deposited fake checks amounting to over $800,000 for himself and other accomplices.
The Columbus Police Department (CPD) initiated an investigation into Steven Verrett in February of this year.
According to CPD, Verrett exploited legitimate customers at his desk as a cover while he deposited counterfeit checks and created fraudulent vehicle loans. These funds were allegedly redirected to himself and several co-conspirators.
The first five checks involved in the fraud totaled more than $800,000 and were reported as stolen from the mail.
Further investigation uncovered at least eight NFCU accounts tied to this fraudulent activity.
Verrett was detained on Tuesday and transported to Muscogee County Jail, facing charges including:
- Five counts of third degree forgery
- Three counts of identity fraud
- Two counts of criminal attempt theft by deception
- Theft by deception
- Financial transaction card forgery
- Computer trespass
- Computer invasion of privacy
- Computer forgery
Additional charges are anticipated. Authorities expect more arrests in conjunction with this fraud inquiry.
Verrett is scheduled to appear in Recorder’s Court on Friday at 9 a.m.
