A New Orleans man has pleaded guilty to charges of mail destruction following an investigation by federal authorities. PJ Whitaker, 36, admitted to the offense before United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry on September 16, 2025.
According to information presented in court, complaints were received in November 2023 about stolen and tampered mail at a local distribution center. Agents from the United States Postal Service Office of the Inspector General conducted surveillance in response. During their observation, Whitaker was seen removing parcels from a conveyor belt, manipulating them, and then returning them to the belt. Several opened parcels were later discovered near his workstation.
Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson stated: "PJ WHITAKER (“WHITAKER”), age 36, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on September 16, 2025, before United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry to the two-count indictment charging him with destruction of mail, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1703."
Whitaker could face up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine as high as $250,000 and a $100 special assessment fee.
The investigation was handled by the United States Postal Service Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Christine Calogero is prosecuting the case.
