Chicago Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal Prison for Robbing U.S. Postal Service Letter Carrier
Richard Thompson, a 54-year-old man from Chicago, has been sentenced to just over seven years in federal prison for robbing a U.S. Postal Service letter carrier at gunpoint. The sentencing was handed down by U.S. District Judge Andrea Wood after Thompson pleaded guilty to the robbery, which took place on November 10, 2023.
According to prosecutors, Thompson and an accomplice targeted the carrier as she was making deliveries in the 900 block of North Francisco Avenue. Thompson approached her, entered her USPS vehicle, brandished a gun, and demanded the postal “arrow key” that postal workers use to access mailboxes and building entries across the city.
The carrier complied with Thompson’s demands, but the robbery had a lasting impact on her. She suffered from depression, anxiety, and financial strain, leading her to take leave from work. The victim described experiencing nightmares, constant fear, and a diminished sense of security in her daily life.
Prior to the robbery, Thompson was already facing charges for stealing mail in the West Loop. Postal inspectors had observed him using a stolen arrow key to open a collection box in May 2023. He was arrested and charged with theft and possessing burglary tools, but was released on electronic monitoring. However, six months later, he removed the ankle monitor and committed the armed robbery.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service offered a $150,000 reward for information about the robber. A tipster helped connect the crime to Thompson, leading to a reward payment approved by the government.
During sentencing, prosecutors pushed for a 115-month prison term, citing Thompson’s extensive criminal history and public safety risk. Defense attorneys argued for a shorter sentence of 84 months, citing Thompson’s troubled upbringing, substance abuse issues, and harsh conditions at the Kankakee jail.
Judge Wood ultimately sentenced Thompson to 86 months in prison, along with three years of supervised release. The state charges for the West Loop burglary allegations are still pending against Thompson.
