COVINGTON, Ky. (WXIX) – A man now has a key that can open mail boxes across Covington after he stole it from a US Postal Service worker early Wednesday, according to Covington police.
The master key, known as an “arrow key,” grants access to all USPS collection boxes—called “blue boxes”—outdoor parcel lockers, box units and apartment panels in the city, according to Lt. Col. Brian Valenti.
The theft happened around 10 p.m. in the 600 block of West 12th Street near Hermes Avenue.
An unknown man allegedly took a key chain from a USPS mail carrier’s belt in an attempt to get the mail key for a specific apartment in that area.
Once he took the key chain, he fled the scene with the arrow key, according to Valenti.
No word on whether the mail carrier was injured or whether a weapon was used.
The man is described as being in his 20s, thin build, 5′10″ and wearing a black hoodie, black jeans and blue/white shoes.
Residents in the area expressed fears Thursday that the theft puts them at risk.
“Our money can be taken,” said Amber Martin. “Anybody else’s personal information can be stolen. Our bank account information can be stolen.”
Martin says she’ll have to change up her mail routine.
“I’ll probably end up going to the post office and handing it directly to them, to know that it is safe and it’s not in the mailbox and people aren’t going to try to break into i to get our money,” she said.
If you have any information, you’re urged contact Covington police (859) 292-2222.