Who must be notified if a postal employee is arrested?

A postal employee's arrest triggers a specific chain of notification that aligns with the operational protocols of the postal service. Notifying the postal inspector is critical because this role is responsible for investigating crimes related to postal operations and ensuring the integrity of postal services. The postal inspector has the authority and duty to assess the implications of the arrest on the postal employee's role and on the broader postal service.

The postal inspector's involvement is essential for understanding the nature of the charges and any potential impacts on postal operations or security. Their investigation might also be crucial in determining if any postal regulations or laws have been violated, which could require further action or oversight from the agency.

Other entities, such as the local police department or the chief postal officer, may be involved in certain contexts, but the postal inspector is specifically designated to handle such incidents within the framework of postal law and security. The Federal Bureau of Investigation may engage in some situations, particularly if federal laws are involved, but the immediate responsibility to notify rests with the postal inspector in cases of arrest for postal employees.