What the Spring Ridge resident found inside, however, wasn't a pleasant holiday message, it was a letter titled as a "public health warning," which made graphic accusations about the sex lives of two individuals.

Watson, who works for The Frederick News-Post, said she wasn't sure how she even received the message, which was postmarked on Dec. 18 in Queens, N.Y., but had no return address.

"I don't know anybody in the Bronx," she said. "I don't know anyone involved."

Luvenia Hyson, a spokeswoman for the United States Postal Service, said that as of Thursday morning, she wasn't aware of any complaints about such mailings.

Sending mail of that type would be a criminal offense, which would be handled by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the law enforcement agency tasked with investigating postal offenses, she said.

Prosecuting someone for sending obscene mail is difficult, however, said Stephen Durst, a postal inspector. Obscenity is determined by the standards of the community, making it a tricky thing to judge.

While crimes such as threats sent through the mail are usually turned over to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the USPIS's options are more limited, he said. The service can send someone out to talk to the sender and discourage them from sending similar messages again, but the sender is unlikely to be charged with a crime.

Watson said she hasn't spoken to anyone with the U.S. Postal Service about the letter.

Post your comments » Round 2: Snow expected to fall today, Wednesday Fast on the heels of the largest 24-hour snowfall to hit the Frederick County since 1983, meteorologists are predicting another round of heavy snow and wind to hit today. The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning Monday afternoon for the area, including Frederick County, and said 10 to 20 inches of snow is possible by Wednesday night. Weather-related closings, delays A list follows of weather-related closings and cancellations for this week. Fire and police blotter Police search for robber School closures cause makeup schedule revision Even though Frederick County Public Schools are closed today -- using the sixth snow day this school year -- the school system will not hold school on the Monday Presidents Day holiday as the first scheduled snow makeup day. Crowds pay respect to fallen marine Even U.S. Marines couldn't hold back tears Monday at the viewing of their colleague, Sgt. David Smith. The procession to the Frederick Christian Fellowship Church was led by Frederick County Sheriff's deputies. Dressed in full military regalia, Marines carried Smith's casket into the church followed by family members as more Marines stood at attention.