Mail theft suspect arrested

LANCASTER – Deputies on Friday found numerous pieces of mail addressed to Quartz Hill residents inside the home of a 42-year-old Lancaster man arrested for running a bogus check scam, according to a press release from the Lancaster Sheriff’s Station. Read it below:

Deputies from the Lancaster Sheriff’s Station arrested Ramon Parson (MB/42), of Lancaster, after he passed fictitious checks at several local businesses.

During a search of his residence [in the 44600 block of Benald Street], numerous pieces of US mail were found in his possession. Deputies discovered the mail was addressed to numerous persons who reside in the Quartz Hill area.

“Preliminarily, we believe the mail thefts took place in the area of 40th Street West to 60th Street West and from Avenue L to Avenue M,” stated Deputy Adam Nelson.

The suspect was booked at the Lancaster Station [Friday, March 14] for forgery and receiving stolen property.  His bail was set at $20,000.

The investigation into this is continuing.

Sheriff’s Detectives ask if anyone has information regarding this crime, to contact the Lancaster Sheriff’s Station Detectives at (661) 948-8466

Protecting your mail

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service recommends the following steps to protect your mail from theft.

• Use the letter slots at your post office to mail letters, or give them to a letter carrier.
• Pick up your mail promptly after delivery, especially if you’re expecting checks, credit cards, or other negotiable items. If you won’t be home when the items are expected, ask a trusted friend or neighbor to pick up your mail.
• If you don’t receive a check or other valuable mail you’re expecting, contact the issuing agency immediately.
• Don’t send cash in the mail. Use checks or money orders.
• Ask your bank for “secure” checks that can’t be altered.
• Tell your post office when you’ll be out of town, so they can hold your mail until you return.
• If you change your address, immediately notify your post office and anyone with whom you do business via the mail.
• If you observe a mail thief at work, call the local police immediately, and then call the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455.