The Knoxville Police Department reports that there were mailbox thefts in the city over the weekend. They report that thieves are seeking gift cards and checks. They advise that if you are sending out gift cards it is a good idea to take the cards to the post office or a drop box. The same is true when you pay bills. The raised flag on mailboxes is often a signal for the thief that something valuable may be inside. Similar thefts have been reported recently in Greenfield and Stuart.