'Prolific' mail thieves arrested after RCMP and Canada Post investigation

Nov 9 2018, 3:17 am

Two Surrey residents are facing multiple charges for mail theft after a combined Canada Post and Coquitlam RCMP investigation that spanned several months.

Heine Hut, 49, and Charlene Saar, 40, are facing charges of theft of mail, unlawful use of a mail key, possession of stolen mail, possession a stolen credit card.

Cpl. Micahel McLaughlin with Coquitlam RCMP said that Hut was “well known” to police for mail theft.

“It’s a big deal from our view that he got caught,” McLaughlin told Daily Hive.

McLaughlin credits Canada Post for their investigatory work in the case. He says Hut and Saar were targetting community mailboxes.

“Once a primary suspect was identified, the Coquitlam RCMP Prolific Target Team made the arrests and then used search warrants to gather a large amount of evidence. The suspects are believed to be responsible for a large number of identity and mail theft over an extended period,” he noted in a release.

To keep your mail safe, Coquitlam RCMP are advising the public to:

  • Collect your mail daily
  • If you are going away, use Canada Post’s Hold Mail service to suspend your mail until you return
  • When you move, file a change of address with Canada Post and advise your banks and other companies

“These tips, although basic, will help you out,” said McLaughlin. “If you see something suspicious — don’t hesitate to call police.”

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