Mail Theft and Check Fraud on the Rise: A Connecticut Case and Sacramento's Federal Push
Mail theft and subsequent check fraud are increasing concerns across the nation, impacting individuals and communities. A recent case in Connecticut involving a U.S. Postal Service employee highlights the growing problem, while in Sacramento, a congressman is pushing for federal action to combat escalating mail theft in the region.
The Connecticut Case: Postal Worker Pleads Guilty
Kierra Blount, a former Stamford, Connecticut, U.S. Postal Service employee, pleaded guilty to stealing mail to obtain checks for fraudulent alteration. According to federal prosecutors, the checks were altered using photo-editing tools or chemicals to steal funds. Blount awaits sentencing on charges of bank fraud and unlawful possession of stolen mail.
Blount also faces state charges related to a search of her home in 2023 that uncovered a list of names and personal information, along with a ghost gun. She also faces charges from a previous arrest involving fleeing from police in a car with false plates.
Mail Theft: A Lucrative Enterprise
Mail-theft related check fraud is a growing and lucrative enterprise for criminals. A Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) report from last year revealed over 15,000 Bank Secrecy Act reports related to mail-related check fraud between late February and late August 2023, associated with over $688 million in transactions.
Other high-profile crimes in Connecticut have also been linked to check fraud, including incidents involving stolen cars and forged checks with Fairfield addresses. Federal prosecutors have also announced indictments against individuals accused of stealing and altering checks to be cashed by "check runners."
How Mail Theft Schemes Work
Check fraud schemes generally involve mail theft followed by check fraud. Thieves obtain stolen checks from residential mailboxes, blue USPS collection boxes, burglarized USPS facilities, or through bribery/collusion of USPS employees. In Greenwich, police warned residents about sending checks through the mail after a significant sum was stolen from a USPS mailbox. Similarly, Woodbridge police cautioned against leaving outgoing mail in mailboxes.
Once stolen, checks are often "washed" using chemicals or "cooked" using photo-editing software to alter the payee and amount. Some thieves simply sign someone else's name on the back or alter the payee line. Criminals often prefer remote deposit options or ATMs to deposit the checks without face-to-face interaction.
Protecting Yourself from Mail-Theft Check Fraud
Authorities recommend using alternative payment methods like auto-pay or electronic payments. If sending a check, use indelible black ink, fill out all spaces, and avoid writing personal information. Follow up with recipients, sign up for check positive pay, and use checks with security features. For mail protection, avoid leaving mail in mailboxes overnight, sign up for informed delivery, and use security envelopes.
- Use indelible black ink
- Fill out all spaces on checks
- Avoid writing personal information
- Sign up for informed delivery
- Use security envelopes
Sacramento's Mail Theft Crisis and Call for Federal Action
In the Sacramento area, mail theft has reached alarming levels, with frequent reports of broken mailboxes and stolen mail. Congressman Ami Bera is urging federal intervention to combat this rampant crime, advocating for a dedicated federal task force to address prevention, enforcement, and cooperation between postal inspectors and local law enforcement.
Bera is calling on the Department of Justice to prioritize the issue and enhance investigative mechanisms. He highlights the need for enhanced federal resources and modern strategies, such as surveillance technology and stricter key control policies.
Contributing Factors in Sacramento
Poor key management is a major factor, with missing or untracked arrow keys providing criminals with easy access. Other challenges include outdated mailbox designs, inadequate local law enforcement resources, and gaps in coordination between postal and police agencies. An audit of Sacramento’s main post offices revealed significant security lapses, including missing keys and insufficient employee training.
Statistical Overview of Mail Theft in Sacramento
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Reported mailbox tamperings | Over one thousand annually |
| Missing pieces of mail reported | Nearly one thousand |
| Missing packages reported | Close to a thousand |
| Stolen mail reported | Hundreds annually |
| Stolen packages reported | Several hundred |
| Missing or untracked arrow keys | Over one hundred |
Impact and Solutions for Sacramento
The consequences of mail theft in Sacramento include identity theft, financial losses, and anxiety among residents. Solutions include deploying high-security mailboxes, using CCTV cameras, implementing stringent key tracking, forming federal-local task forces, and engaging in community education.
Congressman Bera’s push for federal action emphasizes the need for resources beyond local capacities. A federal task force could centralize intelligence, streamline investigations, provide funding, and promote awareness.
Lessons from Other Regions
Regions affected by mail theft have implemented successful measures, such as public awareness campaigns, increased patrols, and stiffer penalties. Sacramento can benefit from adopting similar best practices with increased federal attention.
Conclusion
The rising mail theft crisis in both Connecticut and the Sacramento area poses a significant threat. Coordinated efforts involving strengthened enforcement, improved security, and community engagement are vital. With increased focus and resources, residents can hope for a safer mail delivery environment, safeguarding personal information and restoring trust in the postal system.
