On No! Not again. Mailbox Theft

Third Time. Not charming – May 4, 2023

The back bank of Bridlewood mailboxes were once again vandalized and mail stolen.

At this time, ALL mail of our boxes is being held until further notice. The post office fraud department recommends this action. They consider that an additional break-in is likely. They are expediting our request for new more secure boxes.

Police have again been called. They will be conducting extra patrols through Bridlewood.

As soon as we know more, including time frames and procedures for picking up mail, we will send out info to you via eblast, and notices on the bulletin board.

Update status – April 29, 2023

The more recent break in to 1616 – 1648 Sundrop mailboxes are now repaired and locking. Your mail is again being delivered. Those affected can pick up their mail that was placed on temporary hold during repairs at the Olympia Post Office on Jefferson after Tuesday, May 2.

Our mailboxes are still vulnerable until we install the new bank. While we await the new boxes, it is recommended you check your mail nightly or place a hold to pick up your mail.

Sorry for the inconvenience.

On March 15, 2023, Bridlewood’s three of the 14 banks of mailboxes were broken into, mail was stolen, and the boxes were no longer secure.

An HOA Board member immediately called police and the post office. The police and post office security staff have advised us to replace all 14 units. They noted mail theft is increasing in our area.

On Sunday April 23, 2023, we were hit again, and two different mailbox banks were broken into.  Police were immediately called and a case number assigned. The post office has also been notified.

Here are the steps to take now

• As the boxes are being replaced, the post office will hold all mail for several days. There will be a process of assigning mailboxes, with a few days of inconvenience for residents.

• Everyone should check their mail each evening. The break ins happen at night, so morning may be too late! As long as these old boxes are used, they remain vulnerable.

• If you were expecting something important, or of value, you need will to work with the sender for replacement or your best action steps.

The updated status – April 24, 2023

The Board has approved full replacement of all the mailboxes. The post office has them on order.

The cost will be covered by our replacement Reserve Fund dedicated as mailbox replacement, rather than come out of operations. This is similar to dipping into savings instead of our checking account.

Insurance will cover a portion of the costs.

The lights at the mailbox station were brightened, but this is not a theft deterrent in and of itself.

It is believed that once the new, more secure mailboxes are installed, that this will be the most cost effective and best investment to prevent further theft.