Suspect Arrested for Robbery of U.S. Postal Service Letter Carrier

Chicago, IL – In a joint investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Chicago Police Department, Edward Thoma, 28, of Chicago, IL, was identified as the suspect responsible for the robbery of a U.S. Postal Service letter carrier and arrested on July 6, 2026. The robbery occurred on June 18, 2026, on the 7700 block of South Sealy Avenue. The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office charged Thoma with one felony count of robbery and one misdemeanor count of possessing drug paraphernalia.

“This investigation and resulting arrest demonstrate the role the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and our law enforcement partners play in seeking and attaining justice on behalf of Postal Service employees and customers,” said Nicholas Bucciarelli, inspector in charge of the Postal Inspection Service’s Chicago Division. “We are dedicated to protecting United States Postal Service employees, defending the nation’s mail system from criminal activity, and preserving the integrity of the U.S. Mail.”

The Postal Inspection Service appreciates its partnership with the Chicago Police Department as well as the Illinois State Police, Illinois Secretary of State, and Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office for their assistance with this investigation.

It is important to note that criminal charges are only allegations against a person. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.