Mail Mayhem: Salem Woman Busted in Massive Theft Scheme, Stolen Letters from 200+ People Recovered

Mail Mayhem: Salem Woman Busted in Massive Theft Scheme, Stolen Letters from 200+ People RecoveredPhoto byStock Image

By Kristy Tallman, September 17, 2024

Salem, OR - Salem detectives have made another significant arrest in an ongoing mail theft investigation, recovering stolen mail belonging to more than 200 people.

On September 16, 2024, investigators arrested Ashley Wood, 31, of Salem, while serving a search warrant at an apartment on Orchard Heights Road NW in West Salem. Detectives discovered hundreds of stolen mail items, along with evidence of forgery and identity theft-related crimes.

The arrest is part of an extended investigation by the Salem Police Felony Crimes Unit, targeting mail theft and fraud throughout the area. The unit is collaborating with the United States Postal Inspection Service to return the stolen mail to its rightful owners.

Two other individuals, Christopher McPherson, 45, and Anthony Ormonde, 27, were also arrested on outstanding warrants during the operation.

Ashley Wood faces multiple charges, including identity theft, forgery, and mail theft. She was lodged at the Polk County Jail, where she is being held on charges of identity theft, forgery, possession of a forged instrument, mail theft, and a warrant for forgery out of Marion County Circuit Court.

Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack praised the department’s investigative efforts, saying, “Our people and our partnerships make these arrests and successful prosecutions possible. Mail theft and fraud affect hundreds in Salem each year, and we will continue to pursue justice and hold prolific offenders like these accountable.”

The investigation remains ongoing. All further inquiries regarding the case should be directed to the Polk County District Attorney’s Office.

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By Kristy Tallman, September 17, 2024
The Republic News

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