A string of mail thefts first reported about a week before Christmas in Ocean Shores culminated in an arrest on Dec. 23 by officers of the Ocean Shores Police Department.

Hundreds of pieces of mail and packages were seized in the arrest of a suspect, a 39-year-old Ocean Shores man whose name hasn’t been released, said Deputy Chief Kyle Watson, as the department looks to log and return the waylaid mail.

Many residents were first alerted by a post concerning the thefts made by another officer, Watson said, and multiple residents contacted the department. Residential surveillance video helped isolate a suspect, Watson said.

“The community had a bunch of videos they sent us. That’s how we were able to confirm who he was,” Watson said. “We identified him that day.”

Officers saw the suspect driving on the evening of the 23rd and pulled him over regarding a separate warrant, Watson said. While contacting the subject, officers observed that the vehicle was full of mail.

At least 357 pieces of mail or packages were seized, Watson said.

“There was several pieces of mail in custody and we’re trying to get it all logged,” Watson said. “We’re going to attempt to return it to the victims.”

OSPD is leading the case, Watson said, and is working to put together charges, which will likely include mail theft and possession of stolen property. Watson recommended using a P.O. Box or getting a locking mailbox to help prevent mail theft.

Contact Senior Reporter Michael S. Lockett at 757-621-1197 or mlockett@thedailyworld.com.