Stealing mail has long been a crime of opportunity, and Bellevue is a long-time target for its perceived affluence.

The Bellevue Police Department has received more than 160 mail theft reports so far this year. However, the U.S. Postal Service investigates these federal crimes.

“That sounds about right for that area,” said Jeremy Leder, an investigator with USPS. “I think, historically in this area, Bellevue has always been a target for mail thieves because mail thieves think they’re going to get more bang for their buck. … I’ve interviewed mail thieves who have admitted that.”

The Postal Service advises customers to invest in locking mailboxes, which Leder said Bellevue has fewer of than some Eastside cities though mail theft cases are no higher than in those other communities.

“We prosecute a fair number of these guys that we catch,” he said. “We try to get federal prosecution because mail theft is a federal crime.”

Two postal inspectors work with the BPD on mail theft cases, and will surveil areas reporting spikes in thefts. Police also have had luck with traffic stops where the driver is found with stolen mail inside their vehicles.

Leder said USPS has ramped up its prevention efforts over the past several years, encouraging the formation of community watch groups and implementation of locking mailboxes by homeowners associations.

Postal Service staff can provide guidance for community watch groups, said Leder, adding the best way to curb mail thefts is to make it clear to prospective criminals that neighborhoods are organized and vigilant.