A couple has been arrested for several mailbox thefts in the Spring Hill area.
A 31-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman were arrested Dec. 8 for allegedly stealing items from residents’ mailboxes in Spring Hill.
The first theft occurred on Dec. 6 at a home on Pillar Avenue in Spring Hill. The resident reported the theft of three gift cards from the mailbox.
The second theft occurred on Dec. 7 along Winding Oaks Lane in Spring Hill. Residents reported seeing a man and a woman removing items from a mailbox.
The man has been charged with petit theft, dealing in stolen property, defrauding a pawnbroker and burglary.
The woman has been charged with fleeing/attempting to elude officers, resisting an officer without violence, knowingly driving with a suspended license, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Authorities said the stolen items have been recovered.
The investigation is ongoing.
The holiday season leads to more theft crimes, particularly packages and other items being stolen from front porches or out of mailboxes. While this may not seem like major criminal activity, it is actually quite a serious offense. It is a federal offense to steal or tamper with mail. This includes packages, bags and any other type of mail delivered by the United States Postal Service. Individuals convicted of this type of theft can face up to five years in prison and significant fines.
Theft charges of any kind can result in serious penalties, including jail time and fines. Moreover, having a criminal conviction on your record can have a significant impact on your future, making it that much harder to find work or even a place to live.
Just because you have been arrested for a crime does not mean you have been convicted and sentenced. You have rights after being arrested for theft and you must obtain legal help as soon as possible to know what your options are. Our Hernando County Criminal Defense Lawyers at Whittel & Melton can protect your rights and explore all of your options in your case. Call us today at 352-666-2121 for a free consultation or contact us online.
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