San Diego, CA asked in Civil Rights, Criminal Law, Federal Crimes and Gov & Administrative Law for Georgia

Q: Local Police and USPS mail regulations

This question is for attorneys well-versed in USPS regulations. Does a county police officer (not state or Federal) have the right to stop and interrogate a USPS mail carrier to ask them to verify an addressee's name on a delivered mail item? The police officer in this analogy has no search warrant, and no prior disclosure permission from the USPS Inspector's office. The inquiry of the addressee is also not pertaining to any USPS complaint or issue whatsoever, nor for legal process serving. According to USPS customer disclosure regulations, it states that any request by law enforcement must be submitted in writing for box holder information, and to the inspector's office for approval FIRST. However, I am trying to find actual case law, or USPS regulations, regarding this specific type of analogy of going directly to a USPS mail carrier to request parcel addressee information. Thanks

1 Lawyer Answer
Priscilla T. Upshaw
Priscilla T. Upshaw
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Powder Springs, GA
  • Licensed in Georgia

A: The simple answer is no. Since USPS is a governmental agency with specific regulations and rules, it is best to sift all these type grievances through their channels. On the surface, it appears to be a privacy issue. It is always best to consult an attorney who can assess the specifics of your circumstances and render a tailored response.

I wish you well.

-The Upshaw Law Firm, (770) 240-0922.

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