Is mail theft a crime

Yes, mail theft is a crime in most jurisdictions. Mail theft, also known as mail fraud or mail tampering, is the act of stealing or altering mail or packages that are in transit or have been delivered to a recipient. It is considered a serious offense because it can cause financial loss, identity theft, and emotional distress to the victims.

In the United States, mail theft is a federal crime under Title 18, Section 1702 of the United States Code, which states:

"Whoever takes or opens with intent to steal or to obtain the contents thereof, any letter, postal card, package, or other mail matter in the course of its transmission from or through any post office or other postal facility, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than five years, or both."

Mail theft can also be a state crime, and the penalties for conviction can vary depending on the jurisdiction. In some states, mail theft is considered a felony, while in others it is considered a misdemeanor.

Some common types of mail theft include:

  1. Stealing mail from mailboxes or post offices
  2. Altering or tampering with mail to conceal the contents or sender's identity
  3. Stealing packages or parcels from delivery trucks or doorsteps
  4. Using stolen mail or packages to commit identity theft or fraud

The consequences of mail theft can be severe, including:

  1. Financial loss: Mail theft can result in financial loss to the victim, including the value of stolen items or services.
  2. Identity theft: Stolen mail or packages can be used to commit identity theft, which can lead to financial and emotional distress.
  3. Emotional distress: Mail theft can cause emotional distress to the victim, including feelings of violation and insecurity.
  4. Legal consequences: Mail theft is a criminal offense, and those convicted can face fines, imprisonment, or both.

If you are a victim of mail theft, you should report the incident to your local post office or law enforcement agency. You can also contact the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) to report the theft and seek assistance.