NEWARK, N.J. – A former postal employee turned alleged thief is facing federal charges after a brazen series of break-ins targeting U.S. Post Offices in Hudson County. Zyeama Johnson, 29, of Jersey City, was arrested today and charged with six counts of burglary, according to U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger.
The complaint alleges that Johnson systematically burglarized a single Hudson County post office on five separate occasions: January 10, 13, 21, 26, and February 3, 2023. Sources confirm Johnson was previously employed at the targeted post office, but was terminated from her position. Each time, she allegedly stole mail, loading it into her vehicle before making a swift getaway.
The spree didn’t stop there. On February 7, 2023, Johnson allegedly targeted a second post office location. This time, however, law enforcement was waiting. She was apprehended as she exited the building, bringing an end to the month-long burglary operation. The details of how investigators connected Johnson to the previous burglaries remain sealed in court documents.
During her appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cathy Waldor in Newark federal court, Johnson was released on a $100,000 unsecured bond. This means she isn’t required to post cash bail, but will be liable for the full amount if she fails to appear in court.
If convicted on all six counts, Johnson faces a hefty penalty: a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The U.S. Attorney’s office is being represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chana Zuckier of the General Crimes Unit in Newark.
The investigation was a joint effort led by special agents of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (Inspector in Charge Christopher A. Nielsen, Philadelphia Division), the U.S. Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General (Special Agent in Charge Matthew Modafferi), and the Jersey City Police Department. It’s crucial to remember that these are just allegations, and Johnson is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The case is ongoing.
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Key Facts
- State: New Jersey
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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