And You're Paying An Extra $.02 For This

Now I know exactly why it takes so long for me to get my movies from Netflix. Damn postal workers.
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Netflix thefts may involve ex-postal workers
by Associated Press
January 7, 2006

LYONS - Postal investigators are looking into the theft of 503 movie DVDS from Netflix, the California-based internet company that delivers rental movies by mail.

The company mails about 1.2 million DVDS to its subscribers daily in bright red envelopes that make them easy to spot. Still, thefts are rare, said company spokesman Steve Swasey. "It is rare, very rare. We have good security procedures and an excellent relationship with the U.S. Postal Service," said Swasey.

Gloria Flores, a former employee of the Lyons post office, admitted stealing movies and was sentenced to three years probation and 100 hours of public service. She could not be reached for comment.

Karen Durante, who formerly worked as a delivery driver, is under investigation, the Longmont Times-Call reported, citing a Post Office official. She also could not be reached for comment.

Neither Flores nor Durante has a listed phone number.

The Post Office said Flores was caught stealing DVDs in March. After her arrest the thefts continued, leading investigators to suspect Karen Durante this summer. Investigators declined to say whether Durante had been arrested, citing an ongoing investigation.

Court documents said 503 movies mailed to subscribers in Lyons were missing.

U.S. Postal Inspector Andrew Rivas said a "significant amount of complaints" from Netflix customers in Lyons and the company itself prompted their investigation.

"It was a little shocking to me," said Lyons Mayor Tim Kyer.

Copyright 2006, Rocky Mountain News. All Rights Reserved.