An Australia Post worker, Mauro Paul Coluzzi, has been jailed until December 2027 for leading two criminal syndicates that used stolen bank cards to defraud customers and banks of more than $100,000. Coluzzi, 57, stole dozens of cards from secure mail on his beat in Sydney's eastern suburbs over a 15-month period.
Judge Jillian Kiely, presiding at Sydney's Sutherland Local Court on Thursday, found that Coluzzi's actions were a significant breach of trust. She stated that prison time was essential, noting that cards were stolen from the post, which was meant to safely deliver these items to customers. Coluzzi's family members were reportedly distressed in court as he was sentenced.
Coluzzi, who had been a postal worker since 2007, began stealing cards in early 2024 to fund a gambling addiction. He personally obtained nearly $30,000 in cash and goods from the stolen cards, including gold jewellery, phones, and online gaming gift cards. The stolen funds were used to purchase items such as perfume, scented candles, phones, tablets, cigarettes, and groceries.
Australia Post stated it has zero tolerance for illegal activity and worked closely with NSW Police during their investigation, continually reviewing systems and processes to strengthen security.