The Grinch has come early this year, opting for a gas-powered sleigh over the traditional reindeer. In a turn of events straight out of a holiday heist movie, two individuals were arrested for stealing mail and packages just days before Christmas. According to a Washington County Sheriff's Office report, a USPS mail carrier witnessed the duo committing the theft along their route last Thursday.
Armed with a description of the vehicle, a white Subaru Crosstrek, deputies were able to locate and stop the suspects. Inside the vehicle, they found enough mail and parcels to play Santa Claus in a small town—none belonging to them. Like a scene unfolding in broad daylight, the suspects, identified as Brandon Rummerfield of Portland and Michael Fischer of Battle Ground, found themselves facing a Christmas behind bars.
The mail theft spree didn't just span one zip code; it reached across the Cedar Mill and Bethany areas. Acting on leads of stolen or counterfeit USPS box keys, law enforcement confirmed that the vehicle matched the description tied to numerous thefts in these neighborhoods. Now, as the USPS's postal inspector takes charge of the recovered mail, one can only imagine the sighs of relief from countless would-be victims upon learning their holiday packages may just make a prompt, albeit rerouted, arrival.
Among the offenses, 24-year-old Rummerfield has been booked on mail theft, identity theft, and unlawful possession of fictitious identification. Fischer, 31, adds to his resume mail theft, identity theft, a trio of failures to appear, and an outstanding warrant from Washington State.
