Caledonia, NY – A mail clerk from Caledonia has been arrested for allegedly stealing mail, sparking concerns among residents about the security of their mail and personal information.
The clerk, identified as 26-year-old Sarah Thompson, was taken into custody following an investigation by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General (OIG). Authorities allege that Thompson, who worked at the Caledonia post office, had been intercepting and stealing mail for several months.
According to the OIG, the investigation began after numerous complaints from residents about missing mail. Investigators conducted surveillance and discovered evidence indicating that Thompson was removing mail items from the sorting process and keeping them for herself.
The stolen mail included various items such as gift cards, checks, and personal correspondence. Officials have not yet disclosed the total value of the stolen items but have emphasized the breach of trust and violation of federal law involved in the case.
Thompson has been charged with mail theft, a federal offense with significant penalties. She could face up to five years in prison and substantial fines if convicted.
Local postmaster John Reynolds expressed his disappointment over the incident, stating, “This betrayal of trust by a postal employee is deeply troubling. We are committed to restoring the integrity of our services and ensuring that this type of behavior is not repeated.”
The arrest has prompted the Caledonia post office to implement additional security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. These measures include increased surveillance, more rigorous background checks for employees, and additional training on ethical conduct and legal responsibilities.
Residents are encouraged to monitor their mail closely and report any suspicious activity or missing items to the post office or the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining vigilance over personal mail and taking proactive steps to safeguard sensitive information. The U.S. Postal Service remains dedicated to upholding the public’s trust and ensuring secure and reliable mail delivery.
