A months-long investigation by the Austin Police Department has led to the arrest of eight people and the dismantling of what investigators describe as an organized criminal enterprise tied to mail theft, identity fraud, drug trafficking, firearms offenses, and other crimes.
The investigation began May 15 after officers responded to an attempted fraudulent purchase at an Austin jewelry store, where a man and woman allegedly tried to use a stolen bank card. Investigators with APD’s North Metro Tactical Unit identified the suspects, ultimately uncovering a larger criminal operation.
According to police, the group manufactured counterfeit U.S. Postal Service “Arrow Keys,” which are used by postal carriers to access secure mailboxes. Because the alleged crimes involved the U.S. mail, APD worked with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service throughout the investigation…