'Tis the season to be careful.

The Christmas season can bring out the worst in people. Two Ironton residents were charged last week with stealing and passing checks on a closed account, bilking local businesses out of approximately $6,000.

Ironton police have had three large cases recently of theft involving checking accounts.

Ironton Police Sgt. Joe Ross said both businesses and private individuals should be especially cautious about financial transactions and financial documents.

"People are desperate this time of year," Ross said. "We see an increase at Christmas, but with the influx of drugs in our community, people are also writing bad checks to get drugs. This is the trend right now with drug flow. We're getting cases of theft and bad checks."

Ross said business employees should always get proper identification before cashing any check.

"If you're going to cash a check, always get proper ID," Ross said. "Look at the picture, and make sure it is that person (wanting to cash a check). If you're going to cash a check or accept a check from someone and there is any doubt in your mind, don't take it."

Those who must discard old checks or checking account information should shred the papers and checks before throwing them in the trash. This would prevent unscrupulous people from stealing the items from the trash.

"Our main concern is for the elderly," Ross said. "They are victims more than anyone in check fraud cases."

Ross said the elderly should be aware where they leave their checkbook and who might have access to it. Often, elderly people are victimized by members of their own families. Some don't become aware they have been the victim of theft until they have lost a substantial amount of money or

their entire checking account is wiped out.

Ross said people should never leave checkbooks, purses or other personal belongings in the front of their car, even if the car is locked.

"I guarantee we get anywhere from 75

to 100 calls a year -- no exaggeration -- where someone's window was broken out of their car and their purse was stolen," Ross said. "Thieves can break a window and be gone with your purse in seconds."