A federal jury has convicted Jamal Ashton Shields, a resident of Hampton, on charges related to conspiracy, mail theft, and illegal possession of a firearm while under indictment. The verdict was reached in Newport News, Virginia.
Court records reveal that on July 22, 2024, Shields, aged 33, drove with Sampson G. Jumbo from the Bronx and another accomplice to a postal collection box at the Patrick Henry Post Office in Newport News. Due to previous break-ins at this location, law enforcement was monitoring the area. Jumbo and his co-conspirator were observed using an arrow key to open the collection box and remove mail.
Upon witnessing the theft, authorities attempted to apprehend the individuals involved. Shields fled in a vehicle but was captured following a high-speed chase. During his arrest, Shields disclosed that he had a firearm in his vehicle. Further investigation revealed that he acquired the weapon while facing felony charges for rape and forcible sodomy in Hampton.
Jumbo attempted to escape on foot but was caught nearby with approximately 35 pieces of stolen mail inside a backpack. The third co-conspirator discarded his jacket containing the arrow key before carjacking another vehicle.
The group reportedly stole at least 82 pieces of outgoing mail, including ten checks.
On November 15, 2024, Jumbo pleaded guilty to mail theft and is scheduled for sentencing on May 21; he could face up to five years in prison. Shields is set for sentencing on June 13 and faces up to 15 years imprisonment. However, actual sentences are generally less than maximum penalties due to considerations by a federal district court judge.
The announcement was made by Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, alongside Damon E. Wood from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service's Washington Division after Judge Arenda Wright Allen accepted the verdict.
Virginia State Police and Newport News Police Department contributed to this investigation led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Therese O'Brien and Mack Coleman.
For further details or related documents regarding this case (Case No. 4:24-cr-49), refer to resources available through PACER or websites for both the U.S. Attorney’s Office and District Court for Eastern District of Virginia.