Boardman police and federal authorities are investigating new reports of mail-related check fraud, following a trend of similar thefts in the township.

A Baymar Drive resident reported to police last week that a check mailed in mid-January was changed and cashed for a higher amount. The victim said she placed a $398.48 check intended for a credit card company in her mailbox on Jan. 14. She later discovered the check was made out to a different person for $1,651.66 with the memo line changed to reference patio and roofing supplies.

The report follows two other cases filed earlier this month involving residents who used local collection boxes. A Paxton Road resident reported on Feb. 9 that two checks mailed at Market Street and Buena Vista Avenue were changed to a different name. Those checks were cashed for a total loss of more than $1,800. Investigators say they have identified several potential suspects in the Cleveland area.

In another case, a resident reported that a check for more than $1,500 was altered after being mailed in late December. Both the recipient's name and the signature were changed before it was cashed.

The United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General is also reviewing reports of stolen checks mailed at the Boardman Plaza Post Office. In those instances, victims reported that checks mailed in December were increased to higher amounts and made payable to strangers.

Postal Inspector Dylan Louis said the agency is working to protect mail through Project Safe Delivery. This program includes installing high-security collection boxes and electronic locks.

Authorities recommend that residents monitor bank accounts and credit reports regularly. Anyone who suspects their mail has been stolen should contact their bank and the Postal Inspection Service.