MAIL THEFT / 18 U.S.C. Sec. 1708 is a federal law that prohibits the theft of mail from the U.S. Postal Service, private mailboxes, and post offices. It is considered a serious offense and carries a potential prison sentence of up to five years. The law applies to all forms of mail, including letters, packages, postcards, and money orders. There are two types of mail theft prohibited by the law: 1. Theft of Mail: The theft of mail from a post office, mailbox, or any other authorized receptacle or container used by the Postal Service. 2. Unauthorized Opening of Mail: Opening, destroying, or otherwise tampering with mail without the intended recipient's permission. In either case, individuals who are found guilty of mail theft can face a fine of up to $250,000, and/or imprisonment of up to five years. Additionally, individuals may be subject to civil damages if they are found liable for mail theft.