MONROE, NJ — Chase Pediford, a 23-year-old resident of Owings Mills, Maryland, faces numerous charges relating to a sophisticated mail theft and check washing operation that spanned several states. Detective Stephen Dzema of Monroe Township Police charged Pediford on April 4, 2024, with 61 counts of theft of movable property, 24 counts of forgery, and 9 counts of theft by deception following an extensive investigation.

The investigation began in late 2023 when Officer Michael Steele responded to a local report of mail theft. After obtaining a description of the suspect’s vehicle, Officer Steele collaborated with the United States Postal Inspection Service to trace the vehicle involved. The breakthrough came when the Lancaster City Bureau of Police, in a separate incident, stopped a vehicle loaded with hundreds of pieces of mail not belonging to the driver, along with items used for “check washing”—a fraud method where thieves erase and rewrite checks stolen from mail.

Further collaboration with the Pennsylvania State Police allowed Detective Dzema to connect Pediford to mail thefts from 34 residences in Monroe Township. Utilizing Monroe Township’s Flock Safety cameras, Detective Dzema was able to match photos of Pediford’s vehicle with security footage captured in the communities affected by the thefts.

This case highlights the ongoing challenges and collaborative efforts needed to combat mail theft and financial fraud. Pediford’s arrest marks a significant step in addressing these crimes that have implications across state lines.

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Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

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