Los Angeles, CA – A 28-year-old man is facing federal charges following a three-month spree of armed robberies targeting United States Postal Service carriers across the San Fernando Valley. Andranik Naghdalyan was arrested last month and charged Thursday with robbery of a mail carrier, a crime that carries a potential sentence of up to 25 years in federal prison, according to the United States Attorney’s Office.
The robberies, which began on December 3, 2025, and continued through February 22, 2026, occurred in Valley Village, Studio City, and Sherman Oaks. Authorities allege Naghdalyan approached postal workers even as they were on their routes, brandishing a firearm and demanding their specialized postal keys – often referred to as “arrow keys” – and electronic scanners. These keys provide access to multiple mailboxes and are highly sought after by criminals. The suspect reportedly used a white Lexus sedan to flee the scenes of the crimes.
The investigation, a joint effort between the Los Angeles Police Department’s North Hollywood Division and the United States Postal Inspection Service, revealed a pattern of targeted attacks on USPS employees. The robberies prompted a significant response from law enforcement, who feared the escalating violence and the potential for widespread mail theft. The arrest of Naghdalyan marks a significant step in bringing an conclude to this series of brazen crimes.
Timeline of the Robberies
The series of robberies unfolded over a period of roughly three months, with incidents occurring at the following locations and times, according to police records:
- December 3, 2025, at approximately 4:40 p.m., in the 5200 block of Corteen Place, Valley Village
- January 31, 2026, at approximately 11:20 a.m., in the 4100 block of Whitsett Avenue, Studio City
- February 21, 2026, at approximately 2:00 p.m., in the 4800 block of Morella Avenue, Studio City
- February 21, 2026, at approximately 2:23 p.m., in the 5700 block of Whitsett Avenue, Valley Village
- February 22, 2026, at approximately 12:30 p.m., in the 5400 block of Ethel Avenue, Sherman Oaks
The final robbery on February 22nd proved to be the turning point in the investigation. Just 30 minutes after the incident on Ethel Avenue, LAPD officers from the North Hollywood and Van Nuys Divisions conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Tyrone Street and Hamlin Avenue, leading to Naghdalyan’s arrest. Evidence recovered from the vehicle reportedly linked him directly to the series of robberies.
Details of the December 3rd Incident
A particularly unsettling detail emerged regarding the first robbery on December 3, 2025. According to the federal criminal complaint, the suspect allegedly demanded the carrier’s mail keys. In a desperate attempt to thwart the robbery, the carrier pretended to faint, falling on top of the keys. A brief scuffle ensued as the suspect attempted to retrieve the keys, but the carrier’s USPS scanner was stolen. This incident highlights the courage and quick thinking of postal workers who often find themselves in dangerous situations while performing their duties.
Rising Crimes Against Postal Workers
The arrest comes amid a growing national concern over the increasing number of attacks on postal workers. A recent analysis by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) revealed a disturbing trend: serious crimes against USPS employees have doubled between 2019 and 2023. In 2019, there were 609 reported incidents, while in 2023, that number surged to 1,198. The GAO report identifies robbery as one of the fastest-growing categories of crimes targeting postal employees.
This surge in attacks has prompted calls for increased security measures and stronger penalties for those who target postal workers. The USPS and law enforcement agencies are working together to address the issue, but the problem remains a significant challenge. The motivation behind these robberies often centers around the theft of arrow keys, which can be used to access and steal mail from numerous locations, potentially facilitating identity theft and other crimes.
Investigation Continues, Additional Victims Sought
While Naghdalyan’s arrest represents a major breakthrough in the case, authorities are continuing their investigation and are actively seeking to identify any additional victims who may have been targeted but have not yet approach forward. Detectives believe there may be unreported incidents in Studio City, Valley Village, and Sherman Oaks. Anyone with information about these robberies is urged to contact the Los Angeles Police Department’s North Hollywood Division.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the law enforcement arm of the USPS, is also involved in the ongoing investigation. The Inspection Service plays a crucial role in protecting the mail system from crime and ensuring the safety of postal employees. They are working closely with the LAPD to gather evidence and identify any potential accomplices.
Andranik Naghdalyan, booked under Booking Number 7187017, is currently awaiting court proceedings. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and a trial date has not yet been set. The outcome of this case will likely have implications for future prosecutions of similar crimes targeting postal workers.
The rise in robberies targeting USPS carriers underscores the vulnerability of these essential workers and the need for continued vigilance and proactive security measures. The USPS is committed to protecting its employees and ensuring the safe delivery of mail, but it relies on the cooperation of law enforcement and the public to combat this growing threat.
The next scheduled action in this case is a court appearance for Andranik Naghdalyan, the date of which is pending. We will continue to follow this story and provide updates as they become available. Your thoughts on this troubling trend are welcome in the comments below. Please share this article to raise awareness about the dangers faced by our postal workers.
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