10/19/2023

Police Say People Should Consider Not Sending Checks by Mail due to ‘Washing’ Scheme

These incidents are on the rise

The Westerville Division of Police has warned residents to stop sending checks through the mail due to dozens of "check washing" cases being reported.

After stealing checks from the mail, criminals use chemicals to remove ink, then change the amount the check was written for and who it's made out to. Det. Lt. Justin Alloway said most of WPD's cases involve elderly victims who were just trying to pay bills.

"Unfortunately I believe this is a crime that is targeting our elderly populations," Alloway said. "These criminals just prey on people that don't know any better. They're just going about their lives like they normally have, and they're taking advantage of the way they pay their bills."

Please select this link to read the complete article from NBC4i.