Traffic Stop at Buena Vista Saloon Uncovers USPS Master Keys, Stolen Mail, and Burglary Tools
AMADOR, CA — A traffic stop for mismatched license plates led Amador County Sheriff’s deputies to arrest four individuals after discovering U.S. Postal Service master keys, stolen mail, drugs, and burglary equipment inside their vehicle.
On September 25, 2026, a deputy initiated a vehicle stop at the Buena Vista Saloon after noticing the automobile was displaying improper license plates. Upon making contact with the four occupants, the deputy observed a debit card registered to an uninvolved third party and several burglary tools in plain view. Deputies also spotted multiple USPS mailbox master keys attached directly to the ignition keychain.
A subsequent search of the vehicle yielded an extensive array of stolen items and contraband, including:
Dozens of pieces of stolen mail, checks, checkbooks, and bank cards
Multiple USPS mailbox and P.O. Box keys
Vehicle titles
An official USPS uniform and mailbag
Quantities of methamphetamine
Burglary tools, including a crowbar, bolt cutters, saws, and a vehicle unlocking tool
During the investigation, deputies learned that one female occupant lied about her identity by giving her sister’s name. A background check revealed she had three active out-of-county probation counts for identity-theft offenses. Another occupant was also confirmed to be on felony probation for identity theft.
Deputies arrested all four occupants on multiple felony charges and booked them into the Amador County Jail. The investigation remains ongoing.
