Orange County residents were recently warned to remain highly vigilant against a persistent wave of mail theft, by the Placentia Police Department. State and Federal Mail Theft ChargesStealing mail in Orange County carries severe legal consequences that cross multiple jurisdictions, ranging from local misdemeanor violations to major federal felonies. California Penal Code § 530.5(e) PC (Mail Theft): Under state law, willfully taking or destroying mail from any mailbox or postal vehicle is classified as a misdemeanor offense. Federal Law (18 U.S. Code § 1708): Because the USPS is a federal agency, mail theft is a federal crime. Recent Mail Theft Cases in Orange CountyOrange County has seen a variety of localized mail theft operations broken up by law enforcement, showcasing the varying methods used by criminals.