Criminal busted with 73 pieces of stolen mail and counterfeit USPS master key, court documents say

According to court documents, James Smalling, also known as James Derrington, aged 36, stands accused and has been charged with stealing mail from at least twelve different addresses.

Upon Smalling’s arrest, law enforcement discovered a counterfeit USPS arrow key, commonly referred to as a master key, which grants access to specific mailboxes within a designated zip code.

Residents, like Malik Muhammad, express frustration and a sense of vulnerability. Muhammad, residing at one of the locations allegedly targeted by Smalling, acknowledges the limitations in preventing determined thieves.

Surveillance footage from the Uptown Post Oak Apartment Homes captures Smalling rummaging through mail and subsequently stealing the phone of a witness to the crime.

Upon apprehension, Smalling was found in possession of 73 pieces of mail originating from thirteen distinct addresses.

Court records reveal Smalling’s extensive criminal history, including a previous mail theft charge that was dismissed as part of a plea agreement in a separate criminal case in 2021. He served a six-month jail sentence in that instance.

Before his recent arrest for mail theft, Smalling was out on bond, as indicated by court documents.

State prosecutors have characterized Smalling as a “clear danger to the community,” underscoring concerns about public safety.