Smock Postmaster Accused of $5,700 Theft

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A quiet Pennsylvania town is reeling after the indictment of its acting postmaster, accused of lining her pockets with stolen postal funds. Jennifer M. Soltis, 38, of Smock, Pa., faces federal charges of misappropriation of postal funds and theft of mail, according to an announcement from United States Attorney David J. Hickton.

The two-count indictment alleges that between October 8, 2012, and January 9, 2013, Soltis, while acting as Officer in Charge at the Smock post office, systematically pilfered $5,729.65 in the form of postal money orders, stamps, and straight cash. The indictment paints a picture of a calculated scheme, not a momentary lapse in judgment.

But the financial theft isn’t the only charge. Soltis is also accused of a particularly brazen act: the embezzlement of a Walmart gift card directly from the mail on or around December 9, 2012. This suggests a willingness to not only manipulate the system but to directly violate the trust placed in her as a postal employee.

If convicted, Soltis faces a harsh penalty. The law stipulates a maximum total sentence of 15 years behind bars, a hefty $500,000 fine, or both. However, the actual sentence will be determined by Federal Sentencing Guidelines, taking into account the severity of the crimes and Soltis’s prior criminal history, if any.

Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton is leading the prosecution, determined to see justice served. The investigation, conducted by the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, uncovered the alleged scheme. The USPS OIG routinely investigates allegations of misconduct within the postal system, and their work is crucial in maintaining public trust.

It’s important to remember that this indictment is merely an accusation. Soltis is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. However, the charges are serious, and the residents of Smock are undoubtedly watching closely as this case unfolds. Grimy Times will continue to follow this story and provide updates as they become available.