Mail Theft Rocks Rhode Island Community

A shocking case of mail theft has shaken the citizens of Rhode Island. Matthew Golatto, a 28-year-old U.S. Postal letter carrier, has been indicted on two counts of delaying delivery of mail and theft of mail.

According to documents filed in the U.S. District Court, it is alleged that on July 8 and 9, 2013, Golatto discarded a substantial number of pieces of mail at two locations in Coventry. The mail was addressed to recipients in Coventry along routes assigned to Golatto.

Further investigation led USPS OIG agents to recover a substantial number of pieces of mail from Golatto’s personal vehicle. The contents of 55 greeting card envelopes had been removed, and agents recovered 36 retail gift cards. A package containing medicine mailed from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs was also found to have been opened.

Golatto was released on unsecured bond following an initial appearance before U.S. District Court Judge Magistrate Judge Lincoln D. Almond on July 30, 2013. He is scheduled to be arraigned on the indictment on August 13, 2013.

If convicted of delay of mail and theft of mail, Golatto faces statutory penalties of up to 5 years in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and up to a fine of $250,000 on each charge. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zechariah Chafee.

The investigation was led by Agents from the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, assisted by Coventry Police. As the community reels from this shocking case, residents are left wondering how such a trusted public servant could betray their trust.

The case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need for community members to report suspicious activity. As the trial unfolds, one thing is certain: justice will be served.

MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS

Violent Crime

Brooks Lands in Hot Water Over Multi-State Scandal

Jul 1, 2009

Violent Crime

Todd Bussino, Convenience Store Robbery, Vermont 2021

Jan 18, 2022

Violent Crime

De Leon-Navarro, Federal Criminal Case, Texas, 2008

Jan 15, 2008

Violent Crime

Rios-Nolasco's Web of Deceit: A Federal Case Unfolds

Jul 1, 2010