Lima, Ohio – Three men from Lima have been sentenced to federal prison after robbing a U.S. Postal Service carrier while the worker was performing official duties on a delivery route. The robbery, which took place on November 30, 2023, resulted in the theft of special keys that allowed the suspects to access secure postal equipment and mail receptacles, leading to additional mail theft incidents afterward.
The sentencing took place on June 20, 2025, in U.S. District Court before Judge James R. Knepp. The case involved serious federal charges, including robbery of mail, theft of mail, and stealing postal keys used to access locked mail containers.
According to the indictment, the postal carrier was threatened with force during the robbery. The suspects made off with keys that unlock mailbags, drawers, and designated mail receptacles used by the Postal Service. Authorities confirmed that the keys were later used to steal U.S. mail on multiple occasions, putting both personal and sensitive correspondence at risk.
Sentences Handed Down
Ahmir Curtis, 24, received a sentence of 24 months in prison. He had pleaded guilty to robbery of mail, stealing postal keys, and mail theft. Alongside his prison term, he was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $650 in restitution for damage to federal property.
Zenesto Martin Jr., 26, was sentenced to 30 months in prison after pleading guilty to the same three charges. Like Curtis, he must also serve three years on supervised release following his time in prison.
Christian Proby, 26, received a sentence of 12 months and one day in prison after pleading guilty to robbery of mail and stealing postal keys. His supervised release term was set at two years.
Federal and Local Agencies Involved
The investigation that led to the indictment was a collaborative effort involving the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, and the Lima Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank H. Spryszak on behalf of the Northern District of Ohio.
The USPIS emphasized its commitment to protecting postal workers and the security of U.S. mail. “Crimes against postal carriers are federal offenses,” the agency noted. “We are committed to investigating and prosecuting those who target mail carriers or attempt to tamper with the U.S. Mail.”
Officials encourage anyone with knowledge of mail theft or suspicious activity involving collection boxes or mail carriers to contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 1-877-876-2455. All information shared will remain confidential.
