MESA COUNTY, Colo - Beware of mailing personal checks using individual mailboxes at the end of residential driveways. The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating reports of check fraud after mail was stolen from area mailboxes before the postal service could come collect it.
Investigators believe someone is taking checks from mailboxes and then altering the checks to withdrawal money from the victim’s bank account. Mailboxes that do not have locks and have the red flags that indicate mail is waiting to be picked up are being targeted.
The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating two cases of check fraud that originated from stolen mail in the area of 29 ½ road between Patterson and Orchard Ave. The thefts occurred on separate occasions, one in November and the other in December with the fraudulent activity not showing up on the victims accounts right away.
Tips
- Avoid mailing out personal checks using mailboxes that are not secured with a key. Instead use a designated post office location.
- Check your bank account activity regularly and report any unusual activity.
MCSO Case #17-42122
