Is withholding mail a federal offense
Withholding mail, also known as mail tampering or mail theft, is a serious offense that can have legal consequences. In the United States, withholding mail is a federal offense under the following circumstances:
- 18 U.S. Code § 1702 - Theft of mail: Whoever takes or withholds from the mail, or from any carrier or other person in charge thereof, any letter, postal card, package, bag, or mail, or whoever, having taken or withheld the same, knowingly and designedly conceals the same, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.
- 18 U.S. Code § 1703 - Obstruction of mail: Whoever, with intent to obstruct the mail, takes or withholds from the mail, or from any carrier or other person in charge thereof, any letter, postal card, package, bag, or mail, or whoever, having taken or withheld the same, knowingly and designedly conceals the same, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.
- 18 U.S. Code § 1708 - Embezzlement of mail: Whoever, being a postal employee or other person employed in the transmission of the mail, embezzles, steals, or takes, or withholds from the mail, any letter, postal card, package, bag, or mail, or whoever, having taken or withheld the same, knowingly and designedly conceals the same, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.
These federal laws apply to individuals who:
- Take or withhold mail from a mailbox, post office, or mail carrier
- Conceal or destroy mail
- Embezzle or steal mail
- Obstruct the delivery of mail
Penalties for withholding mail can include fines and imprisonment, depending on the circumstances of the offense. If you are accused of withholding mail, it is essential to seek legal advice from a qualified attorney to understand your rights and options.
Remember, it is illegal to withhold mail, and it is important to respect the postal system and the property of others.