Mail thefts target tax payments, Rep. Hogan urges vigilance – Bucks Round-Up – September 8, 2025
Mail thefts target tax payments, Rep. Hogan urges vigilance
Bucks County State Representative Joe Hogan (R-142) is sounding the alarm after a series of mail thefts left local tax collectors and residents at risk of fraud. Speaking on WBCB’s Speak Your Piece with Pat Wandling, Hogan explained that thieves have been stealing mailed checks, erasing the original information, and reusing them for fraudulent purposes. The scheme has already impacted Middletown Township Tax Collector Ray Chapman and Lower Southampton Township Tax Collector Deborah Doneker. “We are not sure yet, but the checks could have been stolen in the post office,” Hogan said. “Checks are basically being stolen and washed… It’s been happening a lot in the Langhorne Post Office area, but we are not sure where these checks are being intercepted just yet.” Local law enforcement agencies are investigating the thefts, but Hogan emphasized that residents should take immediate precautions. One of his recommendations: Switch to gel pens when writing checks. The ink in gel pens cannot be “washed” or altered as easily as standard ink. “I use a gel pen for all of my checks,” Hogan noted. The thefts come at a time when many homeowners are mailing property tax payments, raising the risk of financial disruption if payments fail to reach township collectors. Hogan’s warning underscores broader concerns about mail security across the region, as reports of “check washing” schemes have surfaced in other parts of Pennsylvania and neighboring states. For now, residents in Middletown, Lower Southampton, and the surrounding areas are being urged to stay vigilant, use secure drop boxes when available, and monitor bank accounts closely after sending payments by mail.
Drug trafficking ring dismantled in Bucks, Montco and Phila.
Attorney General Dave Sunday joined prosecutors from Bucks, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties to announce the takedown of a large-scale cocaine and crack cocaine trafficking ring that operated primarily in North Philadelphia but reached into the suburbs. Bucks County District Attorney Jennifer Schorn emphasized the importance of regional cooperation: “Thanks to the collaborative efforts of law enforcement, a criminal enterprise has been taken down.” She credited the Bucks County detectives Drug Strike Force and Chief Deputy District Attorney Tom Gannon for their roles in the case. The investigation, which involved Bucks County detectives, Montgomery County authorities, and federal partners, led to the seizure of 12 kilograms of cocaine, 50 pounds of marijuana, and 19 firearms, some illegally possessed by convicted felons. Investigators also confiscated about $275,000 in alleged drug proceeds. Police charged 21 individuals connected to what they describe as a high-level, assembly-line-style enterprise led by Jimmie Torres and his son, Matthew. Sixteen suspects were arrested last Thursday across the Philadelphia region, with bail set as high as $5 million. Attorney General Sunday said the ring ran “an all-hours operation with dealers on the street every day and night,” calling the arrests the culmination of a sophisticated, long-term investigation, dismantling one of the region’s most profitable drug pipelines.
Golf invitational to benefit veterans and first responders
The Friends of the Valor Golf Invitational returns Monday at the Union League Golf Club at Torresdale, offering a full day of golf, food, and fellowship to benefit veterans and first responders. The event, a fixture on the region’s golf calendar, includes both morning and afternoon sessions. Players will enjoy breakfast ahead of the early round, lunch between sessions, and a cocktail reception with buffet after play concludes. Food stations will also be set up throughout the course. Bucks County resident Dave Christian, Founder of, Victor Six Health & Fitness Organization and one of the most decorated veterans, who was seriously wounded during his service to the nation during the Vietnam War, calls the outing a celebration of camaraderie and community support, with proceeds directed toward programs that help veterans and first responders lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Live scoring will track the low foursome throughout the day, with prizes awarded. This year’s tournament adds a new feature: access to “The Landing,” a Par 3 course at Torresdale. Separate morning and afternoon Par 3 rounds will be offered for up to 40 participants each, giving more golfers a chance to take part in the day. The Union League at Torresdale, a favorite among Philadelphia-area golfers, is known for its historic Donald Ross–designed course, recently renovated to challenge and reward players of all skill levels. Whether competing for prizes or simply enjoying a day on one of the region’s premier courses, participants will also be contributing to a cause with deep local and national impact.
Joe LeCompte hosts LeCompte in the Morning on WBCB 1490.
