Birmingham man allegedly stole 17 pounds of mail using mailbox keys he bought from postal worker

Birmingham man is accused of stealing 17 pounds of mail using mailbox keys he illegally bought from a postal worker.

Derrell Allen Matthews, 38, was taken into custody in Shelby County over the weekend. He is charged with possession of stolen mail matter and possession of stolen postal key.

According to a federal complaint, Matthews bought two “Arrow Keys” for $3,000 each from a woman who worked at the Fairview Heights Station Post Office. The keys are used to open mailboxes.

Matthews allegedly used the keys to steal mail from mailboxes in the Birmingham area. He was caught on surveillance video opening mailboxes and taking mail, the complaint says.

Authorities said they found 17 pounds of stolen mail in Matthews’ possession when he was arrested. The mail included checks, credit cards, and other personal information.

Matthews is being held in the Jefferson County Jail without bond. He is scheduled to appear in federal court on April 14.

The investigation into the mail theft is ongoing. If convicted, Matthews faces up to five years in prison for each count.

Full story at al.com: Birmingham man allegedly stole 17 pounds of mail using mailbox keys illegally bought from postal worker – al.com