Boston, MA — The United States Postal Service (USPS) and the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) today highlighted the impactful outcomes of Project Safe Delivery, an initiative launched in May 2023 to enhance employee safety and protect customers' mail and packages. Since its inception, Project Safe Delivery has resulted in a 27% reduction in letter carrier robberies and more than 2,400 arrests related to mail theft and related crimes.

“Combating mail theft and violent crimes targeting Postal Service employees is of the highest priority for the Postal Service and the Postal Inspection Service, and through Project Safe Delivery, we are making the entire mail system safer, from ensuring the protection of our employees to making sure customer’s packages make it to their delivery location safely and efficiently,” said Postmaster General Louis DeJoy.

Key Aspects of Project Safe Delivery

• Enhanced Security Measures: USPIS has deployed secure blue collection boxes to all 50 states. These updated collection boxes include advanced security features designed to deter theft and safeguard customer mail.

• Education and Outreach: USPIS has reached over 169 million addresses through regular outreach programs delivered by 34,000 Post Offices. These programs empower residents and businesses with tools to protect their mail, provide guidance on avoiding identity frauds like smishing and brushing, and educate the public on how to prevent mail theft. Monetary rewards for information on mail crimes have also been increased.

• Coordination with Local Law Enforcement: In Boston and across the nation, USPIS has partnered with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to amplify its impact. In the past year alone, USPIS conducted 12 targeted “surges” in high-crime areas, resulting in more than 1,300 investigative actions and dozens of arrests. Partnerships with local law enforcement agencies have created a “force multiplier” effect, enhancing the program’s reach and effectiveness. By deterring theft and providing safer access for customers, the initiative has reinforced trust in USPS’s role as a reliable and secure mail carrier.

• Technological Innovation: The use of advanced forensic technology has accelerated the investigation and resolution of mail theft cases, providing greater accuracy in tracking criminal activity.

• Public Awareness on Fraud Prevention: Project Safe Delivery emphasizes simple, actionable steps for customers to protect their mail. Key tips include retrieving mail promptly, avoiding leaving checks in mailboxes overnight and reporting suspicious activity. Additionally, customers are cautioned about counterfeit stamps and urged to purchase postage only from official USPS vendors.

For more than two centuries, the United States Postal Inspection Service has played a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the nation’s mail system. Project Safe Delivery represents a continued commitment to this legacy, ensuring the safety of mail and the people who depend on it. As the Postal Service moves further into 2025, it remains committed to enhancing its technological capabilities to combat postal crimes.

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