San Antonio, October 23, 2025
News Summary
As incidents of mail theft rise in San Antonio, residents are opting for post office boxes (PO boxes) to secure their mail. The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers PO boxes in various sizes with 24-hour access, but there’s a downside—recipients must travel to collect their mail, incurring rental costs over time. Recent arrests related to mail theft have heightened concerns in the community, prompting more individuals to consider the safety benefits that PO boxes can provide for both personal and business mail.
San Antonio
As mail theft incidents have surged, many residents of San Antonio are turning to post office boxes (PO boxes) as a way to enhance the security of their mail. Victims of mailbox theft are exploring this option, which is available at United States Postal Service (USPS) facilities and online through the USPS website.
PO boxes come in various sizes, from extra small to extra large, with some facilities offering parcel lockers to accommodate larger packages. However, specific sizes may not be available at all post office locations. A key advantage promoted by USPS is the 24-hour access to many PO boxes, allowing customers to pick up their mail at their convenience.
Individuals like Benjamin Fairbank, a temporary San Antonio resident, have chosen to rent a PO box to avoid the hassle of changing their address during their brief stay. Similarly, Robert Wood opted for a PO box after witnessing a neighbor’s mailbox theft, expressing concern for the security of his important mail. Stephanie Abrams, a local businesswoman, has emphasized that business mailboxes are equally at risk as residential ones, leading her to prefer PO boxes to secure sensitive documents.
Despite the benefits, there are notable downsides to renting a PO box. One significant drawback is that recipients must travel to the post office to collect their mail, rather than having it delivered directly to their home. Additionally, renting a PO box incurs costs, which can increase over time. Wood noted that the prices for PO boxes have risen since he first rented one 25 years ago. Nevertheless, both Wood and Abrams believe that the added cost is worthwhile for the safety and peace of mind that a PO box provides. Abrams highly advocates for PO boxes for ensuring the security of business mail.
In light of these concerns, criminal activities surrounding mail theft have also escalated. Notably, two individuals from Garden Ridge, Robert Henry Blalock Jr. and Robert Henry Blalock III, were arrested for stealing mail from cluster mailboxes. They were charged with at least one count of mail theft involving over 30 pieces of mail and were released after posting a $20,000 bond. Following investigation, officers discovered numerous stolen mail packages at the Blalocks’ residence, which may lead to additional charges. Authorities are collaborating with the U.S. Postal Inspectors Office for further investigation.
Additional arrests occurred when an off-duty postal employee spotted a mail theft in progress. Three suspects were found with stolen mail, a firearm, and drug paraphernalia in their vehicle. Statements from two of the suspects indicated acknowledgment of their involvement in the mail thefts, as law enforcement continues to pursue ongoing investigations related to these incidents.
What are the benefits of renting a PO box?
PO boxes offer 24-hour access, security for important mail, and protection against mailbox theft.
What are the drawbacks of PO boxes?
Individuals must travel to the post office to retrieve their mail, and there are additional rental costs that may increase over time.
What recent incidents have occurred related to mail theft in San Antonio?
There has been a rise in mailbox theft incidents, including arrests of individuals involved in stealing mail from cluster mailboxes.
| PO Box Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Availability | Multiple sizes from extra small to extra large |
| Access | Many PO boxes available for 24-hour access |
| Cost | Rental costs that may increase over time |
| Security | Enhanced security for important mail and packages |
| Date | Event | Status/Source |
|---|---|---|
| October 22, 2025 | Report on residents opting for PO boxes due to mail theft concerns | Published |
| Recent | Arrests of Blalocks for stealing mail from cluster mailboxes | Ongoing investigation |
| Recent | Three suspects arrested after off-duty postal employee reported mail theft | Ongoing investigation |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Rising Mail Thefts Prompt Action in San Antonio
Mailbox Theft Concern in San Antonio Prompts Task Force
Additional Resources
- KSAT: San Antonio Residents Rent PO Boxes
- Wikipedia: San Antonio
- KENS5: Mail Theft Arrests in Garden Ridge
- Google Search: Mail Theft San Antonio
- Express News: Mail Theft Arrest in Bexar County
- Google Scholar: Mail Theft San Antonio
- News4SA: Mail Theft Suspects Arrested
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mail Theft
- KSAT: Security Footage Aids in Mail Theft Arrest
- Google News: Mail Theft San Antonio
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
