Federal authorities have arrested three individuals in Central Florida on charges related to mail theft, including a contract employee of the United States Postal Service (USPS).
U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg announced the arrests, which stem from separate incidents investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).
The following individuals were charged:
- Ryan Anthony Aheran, 27, of Orlando: Charged with mail theft after allegedly stealing mail from cluster mailboxes and cashing a stolen check for $9,500.
- Ottis Nicole McCoy, Jr., 19, of Sanford: A USPS contract employee charged with mail theft after allegedly dumping over 1,000 pieces of mail, including election-related materials, in a wooded lot.
- Jaquisha Durant, 30, of Orlando: Charged with bank fraud for allegedly using debit cards stolen from mailboxes to withdraw cash from ATMs.
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“The individuals arrested demonstrated no respect for the sanctity of the mail. In this election cycle and every election cycle, the United States Postal Inspection Service is committed to the integrity of election mail and ensuring the safe and secure delivery of election mail,” said Juan A. Vargas, Inspector in Charge, USPIS, Miami Division. “We understand the critical role we play, and we are steadfast in our efforts to secure the delivery of ballot mail and all election mail.”
These arrests highlight the ongoing problem of mail theft and its potential impact on individuals and communities. The USPIS has been particularly focused on safeguarding election mail, recognizing its critical role in the democratic process.
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The charges against these individuals are merely allegations, and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty. If convicted, they could face significant prison sentences.
The cases were investigated by the USPIS, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, and the Orlando Police Department.
They are being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, which has prosecuted over 50 mail theft-related cases in the past four years.
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