Former postal worker’s fraud case highlights growing mail theft problem
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When most people think of the United States Postal Service (USPS), they picture dependable deliveries—birthday cards, bills, and important documents arriving without issue.
But a recent case in California is challenging that image, showing that trust in the system can be broken.
Federal prosecutors say a former postal worker stole checks, credit cards, and personal information from the very customers she served.
They allege she then flaunted her spending online, posting photos of cash, luxury items, and vacation destinations.
The case has sparked wider concerns about mail security and the growing problem of theft nationwide.
Details of the case
Mary Ann Magdamit, 31, of Carson, California, worked as a USPS letter carrier in Torrance.
According to the US Attorney’s Office, between at least 2022 and July 2025, she stole financial instruments and personal information from the mail she was responsible for delivering.
She has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud.
Investigators say Magdamit used stolen checks and credit cards for personal purchases and trips, and that co-conspirators cashed stolen checks using fake identification.
She posted images online displaying cash, luxury goods, and vacation destinations, including Aruba and Turks and Caicos.
Also read: How the 2025 USPS rate hikes could impact your shipping costs
Evidence uncovered
Authorities first searched Magdamit’s apartment in December 2024, finding 133 stolen debit and credit cards, 16 US Treasury checks, and a loaded “ghost gun”—an untraceable, privately made firearm.
After the raid, she allegedly continued spending using stolen cards.
A second search produced more stolen property, including luxury items such as a Rolex watch, which she later agreed to forfeit.
She faces up to 30 years in federal prison, with a court date set for October 27.
Also read: USPS leadership change draws attention amid questions about future service
A growing trend
While Magdamit’s case has drawn attention, federal officials say mail theft is increasing nationwide.
A 2023 USPS audit found the agency had not fully implemented its anti-theft strategies, with concerns over unclear timelines and oversight.
One significant vulnerability is the misuse or theft of “arrow keys,” which provide access to multiple mailboxes.
In 2024, more than 58 million packages were reported stolen across the country.
The USPS Office of Inspector General has warned that organized groups sometimes recruit postal employees to commit theft or transport illegal items.
Also read: USPS plans changes to improve efficiency, with potential effects on mail delivery
Tips for protecting your mail
Beyond the financial harm, mail theft can cause emotional distress and disrupt daily life.
Missing checks or documents can delay bill payments, interrupt legal matters, and increase the risk of identity theft.
Read next: USPS is rolling out major updates and customers are being urged to prepare
Have you been affected by mail theft, or do you have advice for protecting personal deliveries? Share your experiences and suggestions in the comments to help others stay vigilant.
But a recent case in California is challenging that image, showing that trust in the system can be broken.
Federal prosecutors say a former postal worker stole checks, credit cards, and personal information from the very customers she served.
They allege she then flaunted her spending online, posting photos of cash, luxury items, and vacation destinations.
The case has sparked wider concerns about mail security and the growing problem of theft nationwide.
Authorities say a former California postal worker stole mail containing checks and credit cards, fueling a lavish lifestyle she displayed on social media. Image Source: Pexels / Ekaterina Belinskaya.
Details of the case
Mary Ann Magdamit, 31, of Carson, California, worked as a USPS letter carrier in Torrance.
According to the US Attorney’s Office, between at least 2022 and July 2025, she stole financial instruments and personal information from the mail she was responsible for delivering.
She has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud.
Investigators say Magdamit used stolen checks and credit cards for personal purchases and trips, and that co-conspirators cashed stolen checks using fake identification.
She posted images online displaying cash, luxury goods, and vacation destinations, including Aruba and Turks and Caicos.
Also read: How the 2025 USPS rate hikes could impact your shipping costs
Evidence uncovered
Authorities first searched Magdamit’s apartment in December 2024, finding 133 stolen debit and credit cards, 16 US Treasury checks, and a loaded “ghost gun”—an untraceable, privately made firearm.
After the raid, she allegedly continued spending using stolen cards.
A second search produced more stolen property, including luxury items such as a Rolex watch, which she later agreed to forfeit.
She faces up to 30 years in federal prison, with a court date set for October 27.
Also read: USPS leadership change draws attention amid questions about future service
A growing trend
While Magdamit’s case has drawn attention, federal officials say mail theft is increasing nationwide.
A 2023 USPS audit found the agency had not fully implemented its anti-theft strategies, with concerns over unclear timelines and oversight.
One significant vulnerability is the misuse or theft of “arrow keys,” which provide access to multiple mailboxes.
In 2024, more than 58 million packages were reported stolen across the country.
The USPS Office of Inspector General has warned that organized groups sometimes recruit postal employees to commit theft or transport illegal items.
Also read: USPS plans changes to improve efficiency, with potential effects on mail delivery
Tips for protecting your mail
- Collect mail promptly: Avoid leaving mail in your box overnight.
- Go paperless where possible: Opt for digital statements and bill payments.
- Install secure options: Use a locked mailbox or consider a P.O. box for important mail.
- Track deliveries: Sign up for carrier alerts so you know when items arrive.
- Report issues quickly: If mail is missing or appears tampered with, contact the Postal Inspection Service.
- Monitor financial accounts: Check statements regularly for unauthorized transactions.
Beyond the financial harm, mail theft can cause emotional distress and disrupt daily life.
Missing checks or documents can delay bill payments, interrupt legal matters, and increase the risk of identity theft.
Read next: USPS is rolling out major updates and customers are being urged to prepare
Have you been affected by mail theft, or do you have advice for protecting personal deliveries? Share your experiences and suggestions in the comments to help others stay vigilant.
