Federal authorities have dismantled a sophisticated and extensive scheme to pilfer valuables from mail in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, an announcement made on Wednesday revealed. The operation involved a manager and six Postal Service employees at the Providence, Rhode Island postal processing and distribution center, a hub responsible for all mail in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. This facility processes an estimated 3.5 million pieces of mail daily.
U.S. Attorney Zachary Cunha and special agents from the USPS Office of Inspector General disclosed the arrests of seven individuals implicated in the thefts. According to the investigation, from March 2023 to February 2024, these individuals would extract specific envelopes from the mail flow during sorting, conceal them in backpacks, and subsequently gather to distribute the stolen items amongst themselves. Cunha highlighted that during the festive period, the accused targeted envelopes likely containing cash, checks, or gift cards, suggesting a strategic approach to their thefts.
One particularly staggering instance involved a suspect found with a backpack containing business envelopes that held checks valued at approximately $1.3 million. Cunha emphasized the extensive nature of the thefts, noting that surveillance captured multiple conspirators actively participating in the scheme.
Those charged with mail theft by a postal employee and conspiracy include:
– Cyril Murray, 44, of Pawtucket (supervisor)
– Darren Camacho, 30, of Providence
– Fernando Camacho, 28, of Providence
– Willie Estrella, 31, of Providence
– Ryan Lee, 43, of Cranston
– Angel Rivera, 27, of Providence
– Andre Williams, 31, of North Providence
The probe into these allegations is still active. Residents of Rhode Island or southeastern Massachusetts who suspect their mail was stolen from March 2023 through February 2024 are encouraged to contact the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General through their hotline at 1-888-USPS-OIG (1-888-877-7644), email at [email protected], or through their online claim form.
Cunha stated that although the recovery of cash and gift cards is unlikely, as they are usually spent quickly, any provided information could aid the investigation. He concluded by underscoring the seriousness of the charges, reaffirming the commitment to holding postal workers accountable for any breaches of trust involving mail handling.
