Face source: Carroll Harris, Inspector

In a massive global initiative aimed at dark web traffickers in 2020, Postal Inspectors worked with domestic and international partners on Operation DisrupTor. This incredible joint effort yielded the arrests of 85 dark web drug traffickers in the United States, the seizure of more than $6.5 million in both cash and virtual currencies as well as 63 firearms and more than 270 kilograms of narcotics kept off the streets.

The Inspection Service is committed to using the most advanced technology to stop fentanyl traffickers. Postal Inspectors use data, forensics and citizens’ tips to protect Americans and apprehend opioid dealers who send illegal drugs through the mail. In fiscal years 2017-2020, the USPIS seized 1,323 synthetic opioids, totaling 1,054 pounds.

From late October 2020 to mid-November, the Inspection Service conducted 1,856 security sweeps at facilities in all 50 states, including all 220 facilities that processed ballots, logging more than 11,567 hours dedicated to protecting the integrity of Election Mail.

In September 2020, Postal Inspectors announced the 50th arrest in a series of joint investigations into fraud against the Paycheck Protection Program, a key element of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. The multi-agency effort uncovered more than $70 million in financial loss to the U.S. Government and other victims, with more than $175 million in attempted loss. Law enforcement seized more than $30 million in fraudulent funds held by the defendants.

In 2020, the Inspection Service reports 2,221 arrests for illegal narcotics-related cases.