Four Arrested in Augusta Mail Theft Ring, Face Federal Charges

Four men were arrested on March 3 after stealing mail from collection bins at two U.S. Postal Service offices in Augusta. Qintavies Kimble, 23, Christian Scott, 22, Andrew White, 21, and Jaquan Ford, 22, all face felony charges for stealing U.S. mail and possessing tools to commit crimes.

The suspects targeted five mail collection boxes between Feb. 16 and March 3. They hit the post office at 525 8th Street three times. The location at 1434 Stovall Street was struck twice, according to Richmond County deputies.

Police arrested the suspects after a high speed chase on March 3. The suspects drove a stolen Ford Escape through an apartment complex, Wrightsboro Road, ran red lights, and hit a deputy's patrol car. Both suspects tried to run on foot before being caught by the K-9 unit.

Investigators found brake fluid and HEET Gas Line Antifreeze in the suspects' possession, which can be used to wash and change stolen checks for fraudulent purchases. Police also found a backpack filled with stolen personal checks and credit cards in a hotel room linked to the suspects.

Mail theft has become a major source of funding for gangs in Richmond County, according to law enforcement officers. The crimes have increased across the country in recent years, and the CSRA hasn't been immune.

Kimble faces additional charges, including reckless driving, hit and run, aggravated assault on a police officer, fleeing police, and obstruction. Scott was also charged with aggravated assault on a police officer and credit card theft. White and Ford each face forgery and credit card theft charges.