Crime & Safety

Mendota Heights Crime Alert: Suspect Stole Outgoing Mail, Shopping Spree Ensues

If you recognize this suspect, please contact the Mendota Heights Police Department.

The is looking for a suspect involved in mail theft and check fraud.

Outgoing mail, including several personal checks, was reported stolen from a resident on Summit Lane in Mendota Heights. Several of the checks were then altered, and used to purchase hundreds of dollars worth of goods at several stores in the Twin Cities.

Surveillance cameras recorded a suspect at the . (See attached images). Police are asking for the public's help in identifying the suspect.

Find out what's happening in Mendota Heightswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Investigator Tanner Spicer of the Mendota Heights Police Department advises residents to not put outgoing mail in a residential mail box to help prevent this type of crime. 

"Take the red flag off of their mailboxes entirely; also, be sure to collect your mail as soon as possible after it is delivered," said Spicer in an email. "If you are going to be out of town for a few days, arrange for a trusted neighbor or friend/family member to collect your mail for you."

Find out what's happening in Mendota Heightswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Anyone who would like to leave a tip with the department can call 651-255-1170. The tip line is checked Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Leave as much information as possible. 

You can also check the Northern Dakota County crime blog, where this incident will be posted shortly, to leave a tip in the comments. Both tip formats can be anonymous if you choose. A $500 reward for information left on the crime blog leading to charges is available for those who provide contact information.


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