Former postal worker admits to stealing from mail

HOUSTON - A 35-year-old Houston postal worker has pleaded guilty to opening mail and stealing money and gift cards, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.

Laura Aguirre was employed as a postal clerk responsible for processing mail for delivery from Jan. 31 - Feb. 6, 2023.

The investigation revealed Aguirre had opened some of the mail entrusted with her and stole cash and gift cards totaling at least $2,500. She was terminated and charged with theft of mail as a postal employee.

U.S. District Judge Ewing Werlein Jr. accepted the plea and set sentencing for Nov. 1. At that time, Aguirre faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

She was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.

The U.S. Postal Service-Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Chu is prosecuting the case.