U.S. Postal Inspectors investigating Huntsville, Madison collection box break-ins

Logan Sparkman
·2 min read
2

MADISON COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) — The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) is investigating break-ins at collection boxes in Huntsville and Madison.

USPIS, which is the law enforcement and security arm of the postal service, says it is working alongside Huntsville and Madison Police Departments to investigate incidents that have occurred in both areas.

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“Mail security and the safety of our employees are our top priorities,” USPIS said in a statement to News 19.

The Postal Inspection Service said that it uses a ‘multi-layered approach’ to combat mail theft and robberies. However, it added that it relies on reports by customers to alert them when mail theft has occurred and identify items taken.

“Every day, the US Postal Service safely delivers mail to more than 150 million addresses; mail that includes checks, money orders, credit cards and merchandise.  While the U.S. Mail remains one of the most secure means to transmit such items, unfortunately, these items are also attractive to thieves,” UPSIS stated.

Inspectors warn people that mail theft occurs most often in the overnight hours when there are fewer people around to witness it.

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If you are a victim of mail theft, USPIS encourages you to report it to local police and the Postal Inspection Service by calling our hotline at 877-876-2455 or visiting its website. If you are a witness to mail theft or have knowledge of mail theft-related activity, you’re also asked to contact USPIS using the same hotline number or web link.

Postal Inspectors recommend checking your mailbox every day and removing your mail from it as quickly as you can after delivery.

“The longer your mail sits in any mailbox, the more susceptible it is to theft,” the service says.

Theft of mail is punishable by up to five years and can carry substantial fines.

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