EPPD investigating “large-scale and on-going mail theft” scheme

Investigators assigned to the El Paso Police Department’s Central Regional Command Center are asking for information regarding “an on-going large scale mail theft investigation.”

EPPD detectives want to speak with those who may have been the victims of mail thefts.

During a news conference Friday, El Paso Police announced at least 30 victims have come forward to report mail theft.

When asked if the investigation is related to Irvin Gonzalez, the transgender woman arrested by Border Patrol agents moments after filing a protective order at the county courthouse, police officials said, “no comment.”

Gonzalez, and the ex-boyfriend she filed a protective order against, Mario Alberto De Avila, are both accused of stealing money orders sent in the mail, cashing the money orders and depositing the money in De Avila’s bank account.

Investigators are asking victims to provide supporting documentation like copies or receipts of purchase.

If you believe your mail containing a money order may have been stolen after having placed it inside one of the blue U.S. Post Office collection mailboxes, between March 2016 through December 2016, please call police at (915) 212-4562.

Individuals may also go to their nearest Regional Command Center to report the incident, police said.