Full Notification

MEDIA RELEASE
 
Help Protect Yourself from Mail Theft 

SANTA BARBARA, CA – 03/17/2017 
 
The Santa Barbara Police Department would like to inform its citizens of an increase in mail theft within our city as well as in various counties within California. Offenders are targeting mailboxes to obtain personal information, personal and business checks, and various other details about victims that can be utilized to their advantage. This release is only to make the public aware and to suggest ways to prevent becoming a victim. A list of options and suggestions to better help deter these crimes are as follows:

• Use a mailbox that can be secured with a key or other locking device which can only be opened by the owner of the mail box.
• Deposit outgoing mail directly to the post office attendant or other secured depository.
• Request to pick up checks at your banking establishment rather than receiving them in the mail. 
• Always Place a vacation hold on all mail when leaving for an extended period of time from your residence even with a locking mailbox. 

By following these simple steps citizens can reduce the risk of becoming a victim, and as always if you suspect you may be the victim of a crime contact your local Law Enforcement agency to report it. 
 
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Joshua Morton Sgt, Community Services / PIO / Facilities / Fleet City of Santa Barbara, Police Department (805) 897-2332 | [email protected] SantaBarbaraCA.gov