Penticton RCMP make an arrest for local mail theft and fraud, find kids lost birthday card from grandma

Photo: Contributed

Birthday card sent by a Grama Patti to her grandson, Henry, RCMP are hoping to get back to the family

After nabbing a suspect who has been accused of local mail theft and fraud, Penticton RCMP are hoping to at least get one piece back in the hands of the rightful owner. 

After a week long investigation, charges were laid against a 38-year-old Mark Anthony Stewart, after a search warrant was executed on his residence.

Multiple pieces of mail and forged documentation were located during the search, conducted by Penticton’s Street Enforcement Unit.

The charges include possessing forged documents, possessing identity documents, possessing stolen property, and possession of a controlled substance against the accused. 

“Our officers have been actively working to solve recent mail thefts and break-ins to community mail boxes,” Cst. James Grandy said in a press release. “This arrest will hopefully have a direct impact, and help prevent these kinds of thefts from re-occurring.”

Mailbox break-ins have been continually reported through the Okanagan communities as of late, with residents posting to Facebook with new sightings.

But from this investigation, one of the most important items officers located was a birthday card sent by a “Grama Patti” to her grandson, “Henry”, which was likely swiped during shipment.

Investigators would like to return the stolen birthday card to the rightful owner. Should you have information on who they may be, contact the Penticton RCMP at 250-492-4300.

The RCMP also reminds residents of tips to avoid being a victim of mail theft:

• Collect your mail daily.
• If you’re going to be away, place a “Hold Mail” service to pause deliveries.
• Shred documents which contain personal financial information. 
• Never send cash in the mail.