Javonte Richard, Theft of Mail, Louisiana 2022

New Orleans Postal Worker Sentenced for Mail Theft

A former USPS letter carrier has been sentenced for stealing mail from a Metairie post office. Javonte Richard, 29, of New Orleans, was handed down a 1-year probation sentence by United States Chief District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown on July 21, 2022.

The charges against Richard stem from a 2019 investigation by the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG). The agency received complaints from the public about missing parcels received by the Johnson Post Office in Metairie. A USPS-OIG special agent placed a package in the mail to be processed and delivered by Richard while on her route. The package was addressed to a fictitious person and address from another fictitious person and address.

On November 14, 2019, the USPS-OIG special agents stopped Richard and observed her retaping the package. Richard later admitted to opening the package and removing it from the mail. The investigation was led by the United States Postal Inspection Service, Office of the Inspector General.

The sentencing also included 100 hours of community service and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Office of the Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon M. Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.

The case is a reminder of the importance of mail security and the consequences of violating the public's trust. Richard's actions were unacceptable and demonstrate a clear disregard for the law.

As a result of this investigation, Richard will serve 1 year of probation, 100 hours of community service, and pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. The community can expect a heightened level of scrutiny from law enforcement agencies to ensure the integrity of the mail system.

The sentencing serves as a warning to those who would seek to exploit the trust placed in them. The public can take comfort in knowing that law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to protect the public interest.

For more information, contact U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans' office at [insert contact information].

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-edla/pr/former-postal-service-letter-carrier-sentenced-stealing-mail