Police Make Arrest In Nassau County Package Thefts

ROCKVILLE CENTRE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) — Police say they've made an arrest in a series of package thefts in Nassau County.

Authorities said Peter Dunbar was arrested Wednesday morning during a traffic stop in Malverne. He was driving a white-colored van that police said was used during the crimes.

The 24-year-old Queens man is accused of stealing packages from front porches in Malverne, Valley Stream, Elmont and Rockville Centre over the past few weeks.

Police said he would replace the stolen packages with boxes filled with old clothes, garbage or household cleaning items.

One victim from Rockville Centre said she had six items stolen, including her presents for her children for the holidays.

Police said one of the stolen packages was found on the front seat of Dunbar's van at the time of his arrest, WCBS 880's Sophia Hall reported.

Dunbar's attorney said his client drives a company van and that it could have been used by other employees. He said his client is not guilty.

Court records show the stolen items included clothing, shoes, slippers, logs and a children's magic kit.

Dunbar was arraigned Thursday, with his pregnant wife and 3-year-old daughter standing behind him in court.

Dunbar, who has an ICE hold against him, is being held on $1,500 bail.