By Susan Gager

EUGENE, Ore. -- A Lane County woman has been booked on more than 50 counts of identity theft.

The Lane County Sheriff's Office says it's a modern day crime that's on the rise, hitting as close to home as your mailbox.  The office reported a spike in the number of identity thefts reported in July, and says one woman took advantage of both acquaintances and strangers in her crime spree.

The Springfield Police Department arrested Heidi Richterich on 52 counts of identity theft.  The Sheriff's office says it all started when one of her victim's reported her, which lead to numerous identity theft victims.

Richterich was unemployed at the time and was living off of the proceeds from her identity theft scam.  Richterich is lodged at the Lane County Jail where she awaits sentencing.

The Eugene Police Department says it's a common crime nowadays, but it is preventable.

"Sometimes they commit theft to support a drug habit, sometimes they have found that it's a lucrative way for them to make money.  The important thing is that they need to find unsuspecting victims, and the more people who know how to protect themselves the better," said Eugene Police Public Information Officer Melinda McLaughlin.

The most important way to prevent identity theft is to protect your mail.  Lock it up, get a P.O. box, or don't let mail sit in the box for very long.

Eugene Police also recommends removing personal information from your car.  They also say to monitor your bank account often and check up on any questionable charges.