In 2019, the United States Postal Inspection Service convicted nearly 5,000 people involved in mail theft and other types of related fraud. So far this year, there has been an increase in mail theft cases in New Britain and throughout Connecticut. The crime is considered a federal felony and depending on the amount stolen, the bail bond amount will vary. Here’s what you need to know about mail theft in New Britain and the penalties for committing the crime.

A Guide to Mail Theft in New Britain

Recent Concerns

Connecticut State Police, local police stations and the United States Postal Service (USPS) have reported a recent rise in individuals breaking into mail drop-off collection boxes to steal checks, cash, and gift cards. The stolen checks, with some of them being used to pay utility companies, are altered and cashed by the criminals.

Law enforcement agencies said they have received a number of calls from the community about mail not reaching the intended recipients. In at least one case, a New Britain USPS mail carrier pleaded guilty in August to stealing 19 pieces of mail, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut.

The mail theft occurred between November 2018 and February 2019 and included stealing greeting cards that contained gift cards. If convicted, the mail carrier could face up to five years in prison. Information was not available on whether a bail bond amount was issued by a judge.  

What Are the Penalties

Mail theft is a felony crime under the United States Code 18, Section 1708. Individuals charged with the crime may face up to five years in federal prison. They could also incur fines of up to $250,000. Depending on the amount stolen and other factors, bail bond amounts can vary. 

While mail theft convictions can occur from stealing mail from private mailboxes and USPS collection boxes, the crime also extends to mail trucks and postal workers. The mail does not have to contain cash or other monetary value. If letters, postcards, and packages that don’t belong to the person it’s addressed to are taken, stealing them is also considered a crime. 

Mail theft is a serious federal offense. For more than 23 years, 3-D Bail Bonds Inc. has helped clients in Connecticut who have been charged with crimes. State-licensed and regulated, our main Hartford CT bail bonds office is located across from the Hartford Correctional Center. We have two additional offices. You can visit our office in New Britain, near the police station and courthouse, and our New Haven – Hamden bondsmen service is also located minutes from East Haven Police. You'll have immediate access to our team of professional and experienced bail bond agents who are available 24/7 to assist you with helping loved ones. Give us a call at (203) 562-6666 in New Haven, (860) 229-2525 in New Britain, or (860) 247-2245 in Hartford.