Mask-Wearing Robber Sentenced To 87 Months In Prison

PHILADELPHIA – Charles Sampson, 61, of Chester, PA, was sentenced today to 87 months in prison attempting to rob a postal employee with a dangerous weapon at the Chester Post Office post offices. Sampson pleaded guilty on March 6, 2017. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Mitchell S. Goldberg ordered three years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment.

On November 30, 2016, Sampson entered the United States Post office in Chester, PA, wearing a mask and carrying a long golf style umbrella which was open to conceal his identity. Sampson was carrying a silver firearm or a facsimile firearm which he pointed at the postal clerk and demanded cash. Surveillance video in the area captured Sampson leaving the scene, without the mask and carrying the umbrella. Based on the video, Postal Inspectors created a reward flyer which was distributed to local media and local area residents. In response, law enforcement received several tips which led Postal Inspectors to Sampson.

The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Chester Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Natali.