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2d ago

Austin Police Break Up Organized Mail‑Theft and Identity‑Fraud Ring

Federal postal links broaden the probe and investigators say more charges and arrests are likely.

The Austin Police Department shared some of the items recovered while investigating a suspected crime ring between May and July of 2026.
The Austin Police Department shared some of the items recovered while investigating a suspected crime ring between May and July of 2026.
The Austin Police Department shared some of the items recovered while investigating a suspected crime ring between May and July of 2026.
The Austin Police Department shared some of the items recovered while investigating a suspected crime ring between May and July of 2026.

Overview

  • The probe began after an attempted fraud at a jewelry store on May 15 that led APD’s North Metro Tactical Unit to uncover a wider criminal enterprise.
  • Investigators have arrested eight people so far and on July 21 Cedar Park officers used an automatic license plate reader to locate Matthew Herrington and arrested him after a vehicle and foot pursuit.
  • Officers recovered large-scale evidence including about 10,000 checks, 115 bank cards, 50 ID cards, 17 counterfeit U.S. Postal Service “Arrow Keys,” 700 pieces of mail and nine firearms.
  • Police say the group manufactured counterfeit Arrow Keys to open community mailboxes, which let them steal checks and IDs used for identity theft and fraudulent purchases; the U.S. Postal Inspection Service assisted because of that federal link.
  • The investigation is active, with more charges expected as officers continue to process evidence and try to identify owners of recovered items while warning residents to check their mail and financial accounts.