Former USPS employee faces additional charges over alleged contract bribery scheme

A federal grand jury charged Josef Ratcliff in a Feb. 4 superseding indictment with conspiracy, fraud, extortion and receipt of bribes by a federal official. He was initially charged with receiving bribes in July 2025; the DOJ allegations have not been adjudicated.

According to the indictment, Ratcliff allegedly shared confidential bid information and provided favorable treatment to companies seeking USPS logistics contracts, while receiving payments by check, electronic transfer and cash. The DOJ alleges that some payment descriptions were used to conceal their purpose. The source reports charges only, not a plea, conviction or settlement.