Understanding the Legal Consequences of Mail Related Crimes

Meaghan Kleine Blog

Through the soaring summer temperatures to the chilly winter winds, postal service employees reliably pick up and deliver mail to the customers on their routes. Many employees are prepared to fend off the occasional loose dog or stay dry during a torrential downpour, but surprisingly, the biggest concern for postal workers is mail theft, tampering, and fraud.

In 2023, over 600 individuals were arrested for mail theft. But the damage was already done — postal carriers were being held at gunpoint for their universal keys, meaning many mailboxes and blue postal drop boxes had been compromised all over the country.

 

What Is Considered Mail Theft, Tampering, and Fraud?

While mail theft, tampering, and fraud all have serious legal consequences, there are some key differences between each crime:

  • Mail Theft – expected letters and packages are disappearing without explanation
  • Mail Tampering – your mail has been opened and/or your letters appear to be resealed
  • Mail Fraud – an individual is using mail to conduct a scheme where they are receiving fraudulent physical or financial benefits

If for any reason your mail was opened by the post office (which can happen if the mail sorting machine gets jammed), you’ll receive your mail in a plastic bag with a note from an employee.

 

 

Additionally, in the event that your mail was undeliverable, the postal worker will leave a note describing the incident and detailing the next steps. For the most part, carriers will either attempt a second delivery the following day or have the customer pick up their mail at the local post office.

If you suspect that your mail is missing or being tampered with, contact your local post office immediately.

 

The Legal Consequences of Mail Theft, Tampering, and Fraud

Did you know the U.S. Postal Service has its own department dedicated to investigating and prosecuting individuals on mail theft, tampering, and fraud charges? The United States Postal Inspection Service was designed to protect postal workers and ensure safe delivery of mail.

However, since 2020, mail theft and other related issues have increased rapidly, causing the U.S. Postal Inspection Service to kick into high gear. As the department makes changes to the infrastructure, they also have worked tirelessly to reduce mail related crimes.

 

 

For instance, last July in Little Rock, four individuals were indicted on charges related to mail theft. If convicted, these individuals could face five years in prison and up to $250,000 in fines. And that’s not all — two of the suspects were found carrying a mailbox key. This charge can result in up to 10 years in prison.

Why are the consequences for mail theft, tampering, and fraud so severe? Interfering with someone’s mail is a federal crime. That means individuals indicted for mail related crimes have been investigated by a government agency and will have to appear in federal court.

 

When You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney, Consult the Law Offices of Hickey & Hull

Sometimes postal mix ups happen, resulting in customers receiving mail for a different person. But don’t worry, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service won’t charge you for accidentally opening another person’s mail. Simply give the piece of mail back to your postal carrier and explain the situation.

However, if this action becomes a consistent pattern, you might be in trouble. If you are suspected of mail fraud, tampering, or theft, you will need to answer to federal investigators and you’ll want a reliable criminal defense attorney by your side.

With five convenient locations in Arkansas, Fort Smith, Little Rock, Mena, Rogers, and Russellville, our law team is dedicated to working with our clients every step of the way. Contact one of our offices or consult with our live online agent to schedule your initial consultation.