Q: 18 U.S. Code § 1702: Obstruction of correspondence. How is this reported and prosecuted? I had 1st class mail withheld.

A: I understand your concern regarding the obstruction of your 1st class mail. This situation falls under 18 U.S. Code § 1702, which states that it is illegal for anyone to obstruct the delivery of mail or to open, secrete, embezzle, or destroy any mail that is not addressed to them.

Here are the steps you can take to report and seek prosecution for this offense:

1. Gather evidence: Keep the envelopes and any other relevant documents that prove the mail was addressed to you but sent to your relative's address, as well as any correspondence with the relative's lawyer.

2. Contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service: File a complaint with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which is the law enforcement arm of the U.S. Postal Service.

3. File a police report: Contact your local police department and file a report about the mail obstruction. Provide them with all the evidence you have gathered.

4. Follow up: Cooperate with any investigation conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service or law enforcement. They will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to pursue criminal charges against your relative.

It's important to note that prosecution under 18 U.S. Code § 1702 is a federal matter and can result in fines and/or imprisonment of up to five years.

Additionally, consider contacting the insurance company to inform them about the situation and to ensure that any future correspondence is sent directly to your and your sister's addresses.

I hope this information is helpful, and I wish you the best in resolving this matter.