Essex County Resident Sentenced for Bribing Mail Carriers: A Threat to Morristown's Postal Security

Amin C. Jones received a 24-month prison term for a mail theft scheme that could have significant implications for the postal system across New Jersey, including Morris County.

Morristown, NJ — An Essex County man was sentenced to two years in prison today for bribing United States Postal Service (USPS) mail carriers to steal secure postal keys. These keys unlock critical mail receptacles, potentially compromising the postal system's security across New Jersey, including Morris County. The scheme also involved fraudulent activities aimed at siphoning funds from bank accounts.

Amin C. Jones, 29, of Orange, NJ, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton in a Newark federal court. He had earlier pleaded guilty to one count of bribery and one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud.

The Scheme Unveiled

According to court documents and statements, Jones offered bribes to mail carriers in East Orange and Newark, NJ, usually in the form of $5,000 cash, to obtain a USPS arrow key. Such keys provide access to various types of mail receptacles. From June to July 2021, Jones and an accomplice approached at least four different mail carriers, one of whom was an undercover postal inspector, with a note indicating the bribery offer.

From January to July 2021, Jones also engaged in fraudulent activities that included stealing mail, withdrawing funds from bank accounts linked to stolen checks and cards, and using stolen identities to defraud banks.

The Sentence and Restitution

In addition to a 24-month prison term, Judge Wigenton ordered Jones to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $6,361 in restitution.

U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced the sentence, crediting the U.S. Postal Inspection Service's investigative work under the direction of Inspector in Charge Christopher A. Nielsen, Philadelphia Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jihee G. Suh represented the government in court.

Local Impact and Precautions

The case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist within the postal system, a service widely used by the residents of Morristown and Morris County. With the holiday season approaching, residents are advised to be vigilant about their mail and take necessary precautions to ensure its safety.

Today's sentencing aims to deter similar corrupt practices that compromise the integrity of essential services, ensuring the postal system remains secure for all residents of New Jersey.