2-09-2024 4:28am

THIEF STOLE $80K

Half-Baked Convict Admits To Illegally Possessing USPS 'Arrow' Keys, Stolen Checks In MD: Feds

A convict from Montgomery County admitted to illegally possessing USPS “arrow keys” used to open collection boxes outside a local post office, authorities announced.

Andrew Steven Martin, 30, of Silver Spring, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of US Postal Service keys used to access US Postal Service mail receptacles, as well as being a felon in possession of ammunition, Erek L. Barron, United States Attorney for the District of Maryland said.

Martin was charged following a traffic stop that led to the discovery of a bag of marijuana in the center vehicle console and a half-smoked joint of marijuana by a Gaithersburg Police officer on May 17, 2022.

The officer also found two USPS “arrow” keys — one of which opened two collection boxes located outside the Reisterstown Post Office, Barron said.

A search of the back seat of Martin’s vehicle turned up a stack of credit cards not in Martin’s name, two ID cards — one bearing a picture of Martin and a different name — and approximately 42 checks not in Martin’s name.

In the center framework near the floorboard, investigators found more checks not in Martin’s name, at least five debit cards; a privately made 9mm semi-automatic pistol loaded with 10 9mm caliber ammunition cartridges; and an orange pill bottle containing 27 tablets found to contain heroin and fentanyl.

Investigators ultimately found 47 personal checks and two cashier’s checks totaling approximately $80,164.89 inside Martin’s vehicle and arrested him on an open warrant.

Martin’s scheduling is set for Tuesday, April 30.

The US Postal Inspection Service, the Montgomery County Police Department, and the Gaithersburg City Police Department assisted with the investigation.