Mail Theft In Washington

MAIL THEFT

Definition of Mail Theft

Many people have heard that taking someone else’s mail is a felony, and this is true in Washington. However, under this charge simply having one piece of another person’s mail will land you with this type of charge. Under RCW 9A.56.370, you can be charged with the offense of Mail Theft if:

You commit a theft of mail addressed to 3 or more different addresses; or
Commit a theft of a minimum of 10 separate pieces of mail.

You may be charged with one criminal count for each set of mail that meets either of the above definitions. So for example, if you have multiple groups of 10 or more pieces of mail, each group of 10 may be charged as one count of Mail Theft.

What constitutes a Theft?

To understand the elements of Mail Theft, it helps to have an understanding of the definition of a theft. You can read about what a Theft actually is here.

Potential Outcomes for a charge of Mail Theft

As a felony, this charge can have more serious consequences than may be expected for something that seems like a simple charge. A good outcome on a felony charge such as this could range from getting a dismissal of your case, a reduction to a misdemeanor, or reducing the jail or prison time. Your options will depend on the facts of the case and your history. For a personalized consultation, contact us here.

Potential punishments for a conviction for a Class C felony range as follows:

0-5 years of prison (this may vary dependent upon your offender score, history, and charges)
Fines of $0-$10,000
Probation or DOC Supervision if you serve time in the Department of Corrections.
Restitution
Classes or Treatment
Prohibition of Possessing Firearms
A No Contact Order with the alleged victim of the Theft

WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT A MAIL THEFT CHARGE?

What should I do if I am accused of Mail Theft?

If you are being accused of a crime or are subject to a law enforcement investigation, please read more about your options here. Even if charges have not been filed yet, there are things an attorney can do to help. Most importantly, in some cases we can work to stop those charges from being filed. If you are in this situation you can schedule a free consultation here.

What should I do if I am charged with Mail Theft?

If you have been charged and given a court date, you absolutely will need an attorney’s help to fight those charges. Read more about what to do if you have been arrested here, or charged with a crime here.

Can I get my case dismissed?

The answer to this question will completely depend on the facts of your case. In any case a dismissal of the charges is the best case scenario, and there are multiple ways of getting one - outright, by completing a diversion program, or by winning a trial. We have taken these cases to trial and won. We have also helped people get into diversion programs to earn a dismissal of the charges while also addressing underlying addiction issues at the same time. We can walk you through what options are possible in your case.