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A local homeowner was victimized earlier this week, he said.
Elmwood Park police last week arrested a Paterson man who they said fled a pair of package thefts on a bicycle. Throughout the county, package theft reports have been increasing in recent days.
“Some thieves try to discreetly follow delivery trucks and then steal the boxes as soon as the truck drives away,” Fox said. “Other thieves simply drive through neighborhoods looking for packages left by doors.”
There are ways to protect your deliveries. The chief suggested tracking deliveries and having a friend or neighbor collect your package.
For a small fee, you can require that a package not be delivered unless someone signs for it.
UPS and FedEx also have special delivery methods (also for a fee) through which their employee can stash your package behind a planter or under the porch.
You could also have a package sent to your local post office. UPS charges a small fee — but texts you when the package is waiting. FedEx does it for free.
And there’s always having the package delivered to you at work.
Just as importantly, Fox urged citizens to keep a lookout and immediately report any suspicious people in your neighborhood to police.
They don’t mind checking out tips. That’s how they not only catch criminals but prevent other crimes from happening.
NOTE: If a package of yours does disappear, check your credit card (many banks provide theft protection), then file a police report ASAP.
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