Watch CBS News

Thieves Targeting Mailboxes In Mountain Communities

By Matt Kroschel

GRAND COUNTY, Colo. (CBS4) - Local and federal authorities are working together to catch thieves targeting mailboxes in rural Summit and Grand Counties.

"I feel a little bit vulnerable," said mail theft victim Brenda Kellen.

MAIL THEFTS 6PKG_frame_2258
(credit: CBS)

CBS4 has learned several credit cards were used at the Walmart in Frisco on the same day mail was stolen from a community mailbox in the Blue Valley Acres neighborhood in Grand County. More reports of missing mail were filed in nearby Heeney, Colorado.

"I was waiting on a new credit card that I had just gotten and it didn't show up so I called the credit card company and they were able to track and see that it had been attempted to be used at a Walmart and a few different spots. They had been denied because it hadn't been activated properly," said Kellen.

MAIL THEFTS 6PKG_frame_1844
(credit: CBS)

The recent rash of mail thefts has the U.S. Postal Inspector, along with local sheriff investigators, trying to find out who is responsible.

Warnings are going out to other nearby neighborhoods, and people are being asked to take precautions to keep from becoming a victim.

MAIL THEFTS 6PKG_frame_1024
(credit: CBS)

Postal officials say you can purchase a locking mailbox to replace a traditional mailbox.

"We do advise customers in situations like this to work together, help your neighbor out," said Postal Inspector Eric Manuel. "Often in these types of neighborhoods, people know what vehicles look out of place. So if you see something suspicious, report it to the local office."

They also suggest checking your mail at least once a day, and to track your mail online if you are expecting something of value.

LINK: Report Mail Theft

Matt Kroschel covers news throughout Colorado working from the CBS4 Mountain Newsroom. Send story ideas to mrkroschel@cbs.com and connect with him on Twitter @Matt_Kroschel.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.