Alleged Northwest Side porch pirate facing felony charge

CHICAGO — A felony charge has been filed against an alleged porch pirate who authorities believe is responsible for several mail theft incidents on the Northwest Side.

According to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, 42-year-old Ralph Rodriguez has been charged with one count of felony theft.

Officials said the charge stems from Rodriguez’s alleged role in a string of mail thefts that unfolded on the northwest side, though they did not say what was stolen or where the incident occurred.

Additionally, authorities indicated that Rodriguez had been identified as the suspect responsible for multiple mail theft incidents, though it is unclear how many unfolded.

After identifying him as a suspect in the case, authorities took Rodriguez into custody in West Town on Wednesday, April 16.

“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is dedicated to defending the nation’s mail system from criminal activity, protecting United States Postal Service employees, and preserving the integrity of the U.S. Mail,” Ruth Mendonça, Inspector in Charge, Chicago Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, said. “We value our law enforcement partners for supporting our mission.”

Rodriguez’s arrest was the result of a joint operation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Chicago Police Department, and Cook County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities did not provide a booking photo for Rodriguez.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service asks anyone who feels they may have been the victim of mail theft to contact USPIS online or by phone at 1-877-876-2455.