Newtown Police Warn Of Rising Check Theft, 'Check Washing'

NEWTOWN, PA — The Newtown Township Police Department, along with other local police departments, have been investigating an increase in possible check thefts from United States Postal Service Mailboxes. They said the United States Postal Inspection Service has been advised.

Often, stolen mail containing checks is then fraudulently altered with a technique called "check washing," in which people can change the information on a check.

"To limit exposure to this potential check theft issue it is suggested that you drop off mail inside USPS office locations rather than at free standing mailboxes," the Newtown Township Police Department wrote online.

Police also recommended inquiring about overdue checks that may not have reached their destination.

Police encouraged those whose checks may have been taken to make a police report by calling non-emergency phone numbers (215) 579-1000 or (215) 348-8524. Police also asked those who have witnessed suspicious activity or future suspicious activity to get in touch.

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