Women Inspectors and Polygraphers
Women have played important roles in the Postal Inspection Service for decades but weren’t brought on as inspectors until 1971. Today, women continue to make significant contributions in all areas of the Inspection Service.
Janene Gordon and Jane Currie
In September 1971, Jane Currie became the first woman postal inspector and was quickly followed by Janene Gordon. Both women were highly qualified law enforcement agents with successful careers in the Postal Inspection Service. Janene Gordon went on to become the first woman to serve for over 20 years in the Postal Inspection Service. Inspector Gordon also became the first female polygrapher around 1990. Polygraphers are commonly used by the Inspection Service to examine prospective agents, suspected criminals, and alleged victims.
History of Polygraphy in the Inspection Service
Polygraphs became an important part of investigations as early s the 1920s yet would not be incorporated into the Postal Inspection Service until the middle of the 19th century. In 1939, the creators of the Keeler Polygraph reached out to inspectors to test their newest model. After discussion with the Chief Postal Inspector, he stated that the use of such device would be an "admission of defeat" on the part of investigators. he felt the investigative tactics of inspectors were sufficiently accurate and thorough without the use of the device. However, by the 1970s, polygraphs were frequently used in investigations and used to screen prospective inspectors.
Darshell "DD" Thombs
Darshell "DD" Thombs began her career as a police officer in Chesterfield County, VA , in 2005. There, she was promoted to master detective and selected to study polygraph at the Virginia School of Polygraphy in 2013.
In 2014, Thombs joined the Inspection Service as part of a mail theft team. Thombs continued in various Inspection Service units and was chosen to study polygraphy at the National Center for Credibility Assessment. Thombs was promoted in 2022 to program manager and carries the title of first black female polygrapher to be a part of this select group within the Inspection Service.
HISTORY SPOTLIGHT HOMEPAGE
Explore the history of the United States Postal Inspection Service.
LEARN MORE