The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Carl R. Bonser, 56, of Lehighton, was charged Tuesday with submitting false or fraudulent claims.

According to U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, from Jan. 1, through Oct. 31, 2016, Bonser, in his official capacity as postmaster of the Orwigsburg Post Office, falsely requested compensation for travel that never occurred, causing a loss of $6,500.The United States also filed a plea agreement, subject to the approval of the court, wherein it is indicated that Bonser intends to plead guilty to the charges when he appears in federal court for his arraignment.The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts.The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 5 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.Under the federal sentencing guidelines, the judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs.