Grand Rapids Reporter

U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, Mark Totten, announced today that Jacqueline M. Garrow, 50, of Lansing, has been sentenced to two years of probation for theft of mail by a U.S. Postal Service employee. During sentencing, U.S. District Judge Paul L. Maloney emphasized the importance of general deterrence in maintaining public trust in the postal system.

"General deterrence is important because people have a right to expect their mail will get where they send it without any tampering," said Judge Maloney. He added that "the loss of her job has already brought home to Ms. Garrow the seriousness of her offense."

U.S. Attorney Totten highlighted the impact such offenses have on public confidence: "Offenses like this undermine public confidence in the U.S. Postal System." He noted that Garrow's felony conviction serves as a strong deterrent message against unlawful interference with mail services.

The case dates back to 2022 when Garrow was employed as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service with a route covering parts of Lansing. Home goods retailer Menards alerted the Postal Service after a customer reported not receiving an expected rebate card. An investigation revealed that three rebate cards intended for recipients along Garrow’s delivery route were redeemed at Menards’ Lansing South store by Garrow herself.

Special Agent in Charge Dennus Bishop from the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General praised the collaborative effort: “This sentencing represents the hard work and dedication by USPS-OIG Special Agents working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office on this mail theft investigation.” Bishop reaffirmed commitment to safeguarding U.S Mail and ensuring accountability among postal employees.

Garrow confessed immediately upon confrontation and will be required to reimburse affected customers.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General.