Betrayal of Trust: Former MA Postal Inspector Accused of Stealing Over $330K from Vulnerable Elders

In a profound betrayal of public trust, a former U.S. Postal Inspector in Massachusetts stands accused of a heinous scheme, allegedly pilfering over $330,000 in cash from some of society's most vulnerable members: the elderly. William A. Camperlengo, 57, of Ashland, now faces severe federal charges of mail fraud and money laundering, painting a stark picture of a public servant turned predator.

Camperlengo, once tasked with safeguarding the integrity of the postal system and protecting citizens from fraud, is alleged to have exploited his position between January 2017 and June 2020.

Federal prosecutors contend that he systematically intercepted parcels containing large sums of cash, often money that elderly victims were unknowingly sending as part of elaborate fraud schemes. Instead of securing these funds for investigation or returning them to their rightful owners, Camperlengo is accused of seizing the cash for his personal enrichment.

The alleged thefts targeted a demographic often preyed upon by scammers, turning a supposed protector into another threat.

Among the heart-wrenching examples cited in court documents are the stories of a 93-year-old victim from whom Camperlengo allegedly stole $80,000, an 88-year-old who lost $40,000, and a 77-year-old deprived of $35,000. These were not isolated incidents but part of a pattern of calculated deceit that left vulnerable individuals further victimized, this time by an official they should have been able to trust.

The gravity of Camperlengo’s alleged actions has led to his arrest and the filing of serious federal charges.

Each count of mail fraud and money laundering carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison, along with a fine of up to $250,000. U.S. Attorney Rachael S. Rollins emphasized the reprehensible nature of the crimes, stating that Camperlengo’s actions were a "betrayal of his oath and the public trust," particularly given his targeting of the elderly who were already victims of fraud.

The investigation, a collaborative effort between the FBI Boston Division and the U.S.

Postal Service Office of Inspector General, underscores a firm commitment to holding accountable those who abuse positions of power. While Camperlengo is presumed innocent until proven guilty, the charges serve as a stark reminder of the constant vigilance required to uphold justice and protect the most susceptible members of our communities from all forms of exploitation, especially from those sworn to serve them.