The U.S. Postal Service is witnessing a surge in violent robberies, with an almost 30% increase reported recently.

To combat this, USPS is implementing advanced technology and advocating for stricter legislation, while also calling on the public to help ensure the safety of postal workers.

In one incident, a New Jersey mail carrier was violently pushed to the ground by masked assailants in daylight, prompting him to use Siri to call emergency services. In another shocking event captured by a RING Doorbell camera in Ohio, a carrier was confronted by an armed robber, pleading for her life.

RELATED: USPS Reveals Key Holiday Shipping Deadlines for Tampa Bay Residents

These incidents, which were rare five years ago, have now escalated to over 2,000 attacks on mail carriers annually, averaging more than three attacks daily, according to the National Association of Letter Carriers. 

The main target for these criminals is the “arrow key,” a universal key that grants access to numerous mailboxes, which can be sold lucratively on the black market.

In response, USPS, alongside local law enforcement, is enhancing security by fitting mailboxes with electronic locks and intensifying efforts through “Project Safe Delivery,” which has already led to over 1,000 arrests.

Al Friedman, from Florida’s Letter Carriers Association, supports the “Protect Our Letter Carriers Act,” or “Enough is Enough,” which seeks to revise sentencing guidelines to equate attacks on postal workers with those on law enforcement officers.

Friedman shared a harrowing story of a young carrier facing a life-threatening situation with a gun to her head, highlighting the severe psychological impact on victims.

USPS employees urge vigilance from the community, asking people to report any suspicious activities. 

Friedman encourages citizens to push for support of the legislative bill H.R. 7629, “Protect Our Letter Carriers Act of 2024,” to bolster protection for postal workers.

Want to win a $25 Amazon gift card? 

To enter, simply follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, or X between now and Tuesday, December 24th. (Psst… You can enter up to 4x by following us on all four! But sorry, U.S. residents only.)

(Image credit: Amir Aziz)