Austin Woman Arrested After Police Find Thousands of Pieces of Stolen Mail, Hundreds of Bank Cards

AUSTIN, Texas – A 42-year-old woman has been arrested after Austin police say an investigation into mail theft, identity theft and fraud uncovered thousands of pieces of stolen mail, hundreds of bank cards and 17 stolen postal keys.

Elizabeth Rozo was taken into custody Aug. 25 by officers with the Austin Police Department’s North Metro Tactical Unit.

Officers had received information that a warrant had been issued for Rozo in connection with an APD investigation into credit card or bank card abuse.

Police located Rozo’s vehicle at an apartment complex near Tech Ridge Boulevard. Officers watched Rozo leave the complex and get into the vehicle before following her and conducting a traffic stop.

During a search of the vehicle, investigators found approximately 400 suspected stolen bank cards, nearly 300 gift cards and two counterfeit “Arrow Keys,” according to APD.

Arrow Keys are specialized postal keys used to access cluster-style mailboxes. Police said the keys can allow someone to gain access to large quantities of mail.

Investigators subsequently obtained a search warrant for Rozo’s apartment.

The search uncovered additional evidence police believe is connected to mail theft, identity theft and fraud.

In all, investigators reported seizing approximately 400 suspected stolen bank cards, nearly 300 gift cards believed to have been purchased with stolen cards, two counterfeit Arrow Keys and 17 stolen postal keys.

Officers also recovered hundreds of stolen checks, thousands of pieces of stolen mail and approximately two dozen identification documents that police believe were either stolen or fraudulently created.

Investigators additionally seized about two ounces of suspected methamphetamine.

Rozo was booked on the outstanding credit card or bank card abuse warrant. She also faces charges of unlawful conduct involving a mail receptacle or lock and manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance involving methamphetamine.

Police said additional charges are expected as investigators examine the seized evidence and work to determine the full scope of the suspected theft and fraud.

APD is urging residents to retrieve mail promptly, monitor bank and credit accounts for unauthorized activity and report damaged or suspiciously accessed community mailboxes. Residents who notice fraudulent transactions or accounts they did not open should report them as soon as possible.