Malik Washington Sentenced for Robbing Mail Carrier in Chicago Suburb

CHICAGO — Malik Washington is facing nearly six years behind bars after a brutal robbery of a U.S. Postal Service mail carrier in the Chicago suburb of Harvey, Illinois. Washington, 26, from Calumet City, executed a daring scheme by robbing the unsuspecting mailman at gunpoint and escaping with a valuable postal key.

The incident unfolded on October 23, 2023, when Washington approached the mail carrier and asked for rubber bands. His innocent request quickly escalated into terror as he reached for a box from the carrier’s bag, prompting the victim to pull away. With no time to lose, Washington revealed his true intentions, drawing a semiautomatic handgun from his sweatshirt and pointing it at the mailman’s stomach. The terrified mail carrier handed over his USPS-issued Arrow Key, which is crucial for accessing postal collection boxes.

Washington made off with the key but wasn’t free for long; he was nabbed by law enforcement just four days later. During the investigation, authorities recovered the stolen item. Washington’s swift capture and recovery of the key are a testament to the efficiency of local police work.

In February 2024, Washington pleaded guilty to federal robbery charges. On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Matthew F. Kennelly sentenced him to five years and ten months in federal prison. The harsh sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Andrew S. Boutros, who emphasized the importance of protecting postal workers and ensuring safe mail delivery.

U.S. Postal Inspection Service Inspector-in-Charge Ruth Mendonça praised the dedication of inspectors and highlighted the agency’s unwavering commitment to justice and safety. ‘Safety of Postal Service employees and protection of our nation’s mail system is paramount,’ said Mendonça, underscoring the agency’s resolve to aggressively pursue those who harm public servants.

The Harvey, Ill. Police Department received commendation for their crucial role in assisting with the investigation, while Assistant U.S. Attorney Maureen Merin represented the government. This case underscores the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies working together to safeguard the trust of the American people in the U.S. Mail system.

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