After receiving numerous concerns from her constituents, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher called on Postmaster Inspector General Whitcomb to investigate mail service disruptions, stolen or lost mail, and burglarized mailboxes in June 2021.  In response to her letter, the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS OIG) began an audit into two postal service stations: Ashford West (12655 Whittington Dr, Houston, Texas 77077) and Westbury (11805 Chimney Rock Rd, Houston, Texas 77035). The USPS OIG has now published a report on the results of their audit, conducted from August to December 2021. The stations have until December 31, 2021 to implement recommendations outlined in the audit. 

“Our community relies on and values the postal service, which is why I asked the Postmaster General to investigate mail delivery issues,” said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher. “The issues identified in the investigation are concerning, and I am grateful for the work and cooperation of the Inspector General’s Office as well as our local Postal District Manager.  I look forward to seeing the recommendations implemented, and to improved service for our residents in our community.” 

The USPS OIG investigation team conducted site visits at the Ashford West and Westbury stations from August 31–September 1, 2021, confirming several of the mail disruption issues cited in the Congresswoman’s letter. Findings of their investigation include: (1) delayed mail delivery, (2) inaccurate reporting of mail conditions and expected delivery, (3) package scanning issues, (4) inbound mail truck arrival scans, and (5) improper safeguarding of mail delivery vehicles and arrow lock keys. 

Regarding reports of lost mail and removal of drive-up mail collection boxes, USPS district management has observed several physical attempts of mail theft and have since replaced the drive-up mail collection boxes at the Ashford West and Westbury Stations. 

The full USPS OIG report can be found here.