NEWAYGO COUNTY — Troopers from the Michigan State Police Hart Post have identified a suspect following a series of mail and package thefts that began in mid-December. The suspect faces 11 felony and eight misdemeanor charges after investigators recovered stolen mail belonging to 40 victims in Newaygo County.
The investigation focused on reports of property stolen from residential mailboxes, including new checkbooks, holiday gift packages and Christmas cards containing cash and checks. Troopers also investigated related reports of check fraud and damaged mailboxes throughout the county.
Investigators identified the suspect through a combination of physical evidence and home security footage. A suspect vehicle was captured on multiple cameras at various residences and a stolen check was deposited while the victim was out of town, which allowed troopers to track the transaction.
As the investigation continued, the Newaygo Detachment received additional complaints regarding damaged mailboxes and check fraud incidents. Authorities eventually recovered approximately 40 pieces of stolen mail linked to 40 separate victims.
The suspect admitted to acting alone during the thefts. The 19 charges filed against the individual include felony malicious destruction of property, larceny and check fraud.