WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Mail stolen from broken-into boxes

Mail theft has been taken to a new level in Cecelia‘s neighborhood:

I live on 16th Ave SW in Puget Ridge. On Saturday night our USPS-issued community mailbox was broken into (5400 block) along with one on 21st Ave SW and Holly (and) at least one other one on 17th (also 5400 block). There was at least one report that someone noticed that one other of the same type mailbox was damaged but not fully broken into. They were all pried open and most mail was missing with just some random pieces left behind.

It was noted in our neighborhood newsgroup that each individual in these kind of boxes must make their own police report. I’ve filed a report and I know some other neighbors have too. Also that one neighbor spoke with USPS and was told that if the mail carrier cannot lock a box they will automatically hold the mail at the post office.

We’ve had many mail thefts in the past but they are usually street boxes that are not locked. I’ve lived here 5 years and this is the first time our USPS mailbox has been broken into.

Here’s how to report mail theft and/or mailbox break-ins, which, SPD notes, are federal crimes.

1 Reply to "WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Mail stolen from broken-into boxes"

  • Westside June 21, 2017 (10:19 am)

    Our common box was damaged during this spree, and the PO just called and told me they won’t repair it, police report or not. That seems strange, as other boxes are being repaired by the PO. Anyone else have this experience?

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