Toledo Man Arrested For Mail Theft

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies say a string of mail thefts in the Seal Rock area has led to the arrest of a Toledo man but the investigation serves as a strong reminder that criminals often rely on opportunity — and residents can take key steps to protect themselves. On February 19, 2026, deputies received multiple reports of stolen mail near NW Kinglet Street. During the investigation, law enforcement learned similar thefts had been occurring throughout the area over the past several months. Items taken reportedly included packages, tax documents, and other personal mail.

Investigators were able to obtain photographs of a suspect from a nearby residential security camera. Those images were shared with neighboring law enforcement agencies, ultimately leading to the identification of Joshua Van Hoorebeke of Toledo. Deputies contacted Van Hoorebeke and took him into custody on charges related to mail theft.

Authorities say crimes like this are rarely random. Mail thieves frequently look for documents containing valuable personal information — including tax refunds, checks, bank statements, and credit card offers — which can be used for identity theft, financial fraud, and other crimes that can cause long-term harm to victims.

Law enforcement is urging residents across Lincoln County to remain vigilant, especially during tax season when sensitive documents are more likely to arrive by mail.

Here are several key steps residents can take to reduce the risk:

• Collect mail promptly after delivery and avoid leaving packages unattended.

• Use a locking mailbox or secure parcel box whenever possible.

• Sign up for USPS Informed Delivery to track incoming mail and detect missing items quickly.

• Shred sensitive documents before disposal to prevent information theft.

• Monitor bank and credit accounts regularly for suspicious activity.

• Consider credit monitoring or a fraud alert if you believe your personal information may have been compromised.

Deputies say outside camera systems played a critical role in this case. A single residential camera captured images that ultimately led to identifying the suspect, underscoring how community technology can directly assist investigations. Visible cameras can also act as a deterrent. Criminals often avoid homes and neighborhoods where surveillance is clearly present. When thefts do occur, footage provides time stamps, suspect descriptions, and vehicle details that significantly increase the chances of an arrest.

Deputies emphasize that mail theft is a crime of opportunity, and prevention often comes down to awareness and community cooperation. Residents who notice suspicious activity — such as individuals walking door-to-door without clear purpose or vehicles repeatedly stopping at mailboxes — are encouraged to report it to local law enforcement.

While one suspect is now in custody, officials say ongoing vigilance from residents remains essential to prevent future incidents and protect sensitive personal information from falling into the wrong hands.

To protect yourself, pick up mail daily, use secure drop-off locations, and report suspicious activity immediately to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455 or at MailTheft.USPIS.gov. To report mail theft or other suspicious activity, please contact Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 541-265-0777.