How to protect your mail

The arrest this week of an out of state man who allegedly stole mail in West Union leads the Oconee Sheriff’s Office to offer tips on how to prevent your mail from being stolen. Franklin, North Carolina resident Roy England Norvell Jr. was arrested Sunday after an officer saw the 83-year old Norvell allegedly open a mailbox on Elizabeth Drive and take mail out. By yesterday, Norvell remained in the Oconee Jail, charged in two incidents of mail theft—one on Elizabeth Drive and the other on West Union’s Main Street. According to the U-S Postal Inspection Service, use letter slots inside the post office to mail letters or bills or hand them to your carrier. If you change your address, immediately notify the post office and anyone you do business with. Don’t send cash in the mail. If you plan to be out of town, notify your carrier to stop or hold your mail until you return. You can also ask a trusted friend or neighbor to pick up your mail. Pick up your mail promptly after delivery. Don’t leave mail overnight in the mailbox. If you don’t receive a check or valuable mail you have been expecting, immediately contact the issuing agency. Ask your bank for “secure” checks that can’t be altered. And, if you suspect mail theft, contact your postal inspector.