Multi-Agency Investigation Dismantles Organized Mail and Identity Theft Ring
TULARE, CA — The Tulare Police Department Street Crimes Unit has announced the arrest of three individuals following a multi-month investigation into an organized mail and identity theft operation. The investigation was initiated in response to an increase in community mailbox burglaries reported within the City of Tulare over the last six to seven months. According to authorities, the operation spanned Tulare, Fresno, and Madera counties.
The investigation progressed following a traffic stop on January 8, 2026, where investigators identified 40-year-old Stephen Yang and 48-year-old Kou Vang as suspects. On January 28, 2026, law enforcement personnel executed search warrants at three residential locations in Fresno. The operation involved the Fresno Police Department Felony Assault Team, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Fresno County Adult Compliance Team. The latter includes personnel from the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office, and the police departments of Kingsburg, Selma, Kerman, Clovis, and Fresno.
The search resulted in the arrests of Yang, Vang, and 35-year-old Xai Xiong. During the execution of the warrants, investigators recovered more than 300 pieces of stolen mail. Additional items seized included credit cards, California identification cards, counterfeit mailbox keys, a credit card manufacturing device, license plates, prescription medication, and tax refund checks.
All three suspects were transported to the Tulare County Jail and booked on several charges, including possession of stolen property, possession of burglary tools, possession of controlled substances, and possession of personal information with the intent to commit identity theft. Stolen mail identified as originating from Fresno-area addresses will be transferred to the United States Postal Inspection Service. The Fresno Police Department has been notified of the developments.
The Tulare Police Department has requested that anyone with information relevant to the case contact Detective Phelps at (559) 685-2330 ext. 2158 or Sergeant Hinojosa at (559) 684-4390.
