Fayette County Detectives Uncover Stolen Mail in Covert Operation, Suspect Sentenced to 40 Years

In the months leading up to July 2023, the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office received numerous reports of mail theft occurring throughout the county. On July 30, 2023, during a covert operation, detectives were alerted to a suspicious vehicle attempting to tamper with a post box at the Fayetteville post office. Upon searching the vehicle, deputies discovered a box labeled “United States Postal Service” containing stolen mail. The investigation revealed that the mail consisted of personal correspondences, medical records, tax documents, and approximately $49,000 in bill payments.

Christopher Smith, a passenger in the vehicle, was charged with 52 counts of identity fraud and one count of illegal possession of mail. Smith recently accepted a blind plea deal, resulting in a 40-year sentence, including 15 years in state prison and 25 years of probation. The driver of the vehicle, John Turner, is currently awaiting trial.

The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office has emphasized that mail theft will not be tolerated in the community and encourages residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to mail theft to local authorities.