Published on February 19, 2026
Since January 1, the Chapel Hill Police Department has received 24 reports of checks being stolen sometime after they were dropped in a mailbox outside the USPS office on S. Estes Drive.
Officers are supporting the USPS in its investigations of these reports and warn this type of theft could happen anywhere.
"If you can't use a secure online payment method, we recommend dropping it off inside the post office, rather than in the blue USPS mailboxes," said Chief Celisa Lehew.
If you have to write and mail a paper check, here's how to make it more secure:
Write "For Deposit Only" on the check in the endorsement area.
Use a security pen with non-washable ink.
Use an opaque security envelope.
Use extra tape to seal the envelope.
Don't write anything on the envelope showing it contains a payment.
Consider sending the check as either certified or priority mail, especially large amounts of money. These methods have tracking features and may require signatures.
Check and confirm that the recipient received your payment.
If a check is lost or stolen, notify your bank immediately and include the check number, payee name, amount, and date issued. Then file a police report. You should also contact the USPS to report it.