Former USPS employee in Richmond sentenced to 20 months in prison for mail theft
Richmond, Virginia – A Richmond man has been sentenced to 20 months in prison for theft of mail while employed by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). The announcement was made last week by Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Jeff Krafels, Special Agent in Charge of the Mid Atlantic Area Field Office for the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General.
According to court documents, Terell Taylor, 40, worked as a postal carrier in Richmond from at least April 2023 through December 2023. During this period, Taylor stole mail entrusted to him on multiple occasions. He then sold the stolen mail in bulk to a co-conspirator in exchange for cash. One notable incident occurred on November 29, 2023, when Taylor removed mail from his USPS vehicle, placed it in two black trash bags, and sold the bags for $300.
Taylor’s criminal history includes over 20 prior convictions for felony theft-related offenses, as well as convictions for eluding police and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He is no longer employed by the USPS.
Jessica D. Aber and Jeff Krafels announced the sentencing following the decision by Senior U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson. Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi Panth prosecuted the case.
Taylor’s sentence highlights the ongoing efforts of the U.S. Postal Service and federal authorities to combat mail theft and ensure the integrity of the postal system. The collaboration between the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the USPS Office of Inspector General underscores the commitment to prosecuting those who violate public trust and engage in criminal activities.
