Boston city councilors claiming USPS carrier dumped mail-in ballots in trash

BOSTON — A pair of Boston city counselors are alleging that mail-in ballots are being thrown out by a United States Postal Service letter carrier.

Boston City Council Michael Flaherty told Boston 25 News they learned from residents they haven’t received their requested mail-in ballots and learned yesterday that a temporary mailman was dumping mail into the trash.

Those who have not received mail-in ballots, you won’t get it, Flaherty says, and that residents would then need to vote in person.

“Our hope is that people will watch this show, and then if they requested a mail-in ballot and haven’t received it, they need to know they’re not getting one, and they need to make arrangements to vote on Tuesday,” said Boston City Council Michael Flaherty.

District 2 City Councilor Ed Flynn says they heard from residents about the issue and have talked to Boston’s Election Department.

Flynn is telling people to vote in person if they are worried. Flaherty says the temporary mail carrier has been suspended and disciplined for allegedly throwing out ballots.

The United States Postal Service told Boston 25 News a USPS employee did allegedly mishandle mail but said the mail didn’t include election mail, specifically ballots or ballot material.

“The United States Postal Service is committed to fulfilling its role in the electoral process as a secure, efficient, and effective way for citizens to participate when policymakers decide to use mail as part of their elections. The Postal Service has a robust and tested process for proper handling and timely delivery of Election Mail.

Regarding mail in South Boston, the Postal Service is aware of allegations of mishandling of mail, including some pieces of Political Mail, by an employee. No Election Mail, specifically ballots or ballot materials, were involved. All campaign mailpieces were recovered and returned to the mainstream. We have requested the involvement of the USPS Office of the Inspector General for investigation and will have no further comment until that investigation is complete.”

—  United States Postal Service

USPS did not confirm whether the employee was suspended or if there will be charges filed. Boston 25 News has reached out to the city’s Election Department for comment.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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