What is the primary focus of the Postal Inspection Service?

The primary focus of the Postal Inspection Service is to ensure the security and safety of the mail and postal employees. This agency is responsible for protecting the United States Postal Service (USPS) and its assets, which includes investigating crimes that affect the postal system, such as mail theft, fraud, and threats to employee safety. Their role is paramount in maintaining the integrity of the mail and the safety of postal workers, ensuring that the postal system operates smoothly and securely.

Other options, while they may touch upon aspects of postal operations, do not accurately reflect the main mission of the Postal Inspection Service. For instance, determining payroll or managing delivery routes are functions handled within the USPS's operational and administrative structures, rather than the focus of the Inspection Service. Similarly, optimizing delivery performance metrics is related to improving efficiency and service within the postal system but does not encompass the comprehensive role of safeguarding the mail and its workforce.