Mailbox vandalism affects all

16 years ago

To the editor:
    I think it is appalling that someone can’t even trust their neighbors not to vandalize their rural mailbox. Not only once, but twice.
    The impact of mailbox vandalism affects all of us, as we don’t feel as secure in our neighborhoods and communities. Damaged mailboxes have to be replaced, costing the owner time, money and inconvenience. Meanwhile, the mail cannot be delivered. Doing without getting mail can negatively affect the victim’s life.     Mailboxes are protected by federal law, and crimes against them and the mail they contain are considered a federal offense. Violators can be fined up to $1,000 or imprisoned for up to three years for each act of vandalism. It is a criminal act that hurts our neighbors and our community. The Postal Service doesn’t take such crimes lightly, therefore the vandal should think twice before committing such a crime.

Joanna Richards
Castle Hill