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Peanut Butter Plot: Man Mails Allergy Threat
15 Nov
Summary
- Man arrested for mailing peanut butter-smearing greeting card.
- Victim had severe peanut allergy; life was endangered.
- Arrest followed investigation using postal kiosk photos.
A man in South Florida has been arrested for allegedly mailing a greeting card smeared with peanut butter to an acquaintance with a severe peanut allergy, placing her life in danger. Joseph Gerard Cancellare, 68, was apprehended on November 13, 2026, facing charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and culpable negligence.
The incident unfolded on August 14, 2025, when the victim received a blue envelope containing a greeting card with a brown substance. Recognizing it as peanut butter and knowing her potentially life-threatening allergy, she immediately sought help. Investigators traced the two stamps on the envelope to a self-service kiosk at a Davie Post Office, where a transaction on August 8, 2025, was captured on camera.
Cancellare was identified from the kiosk's photograph and linked to the purchase via a Visa card. Witnesses also confirmed his identity. The affidavit details that Cancellare was well aware of the woman's allergy, which had been previously documented. Investigators believe he intentionally exposed her to the allergen, intending to cause serious harm.
The investigation, which continued into 2026, culminated in Cancellare's arrest at his home. He faces serious charges related to the deliberate mailing of the allergen.
