Police Looking For Thief Who Swiped Package Off Long Island Porch
BALDWIN, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Police are looking for a man who was caught on camera stealing a box from outside a Long Island home.
The thief swiped the package off the porch of a Baldwin couple while they were at work, CBS2's Jennifer McLogan reported. Inside the box was a a $300 tuxedo jacket -- a gift to be worn on an upcoming cruise.
"After I figured out the tracking number and it said it was delivered, I went back to check the surveillance, and I actually saw the thief come onto my property," said victim Timothy Sullivan. "It was shocking."
The bold crook drove past, backed up his car when he spotted the enticing package. Within seconds, he had the stolen goods -- complete with personal financial information -- concealed in his dark-colored sedan, making a swift getaway.
"These undignified thieves are not just looking to get your merchandise; they are also looking to steal your identity," said victim Brian Brenner.
Investigators hope someone will recognize the thief. They're also warning homeowners about unattended boxes as the holiday season approaches.
The UPS worker remembers making the delivery at the Brenner/Sullivan home. He said he didn't think he was being followed.
But in adjacent Nassau County neighborhoods, delivery drivers are on the lookout for thieves who trail trucks looking to steal at the holidays.
"Policeman stopped me, and apparently people are going around following the trucks because we're leaving them on the porches," said one FedEx driver. "We try to hide them if we can."
"People don't have money for gifts. They don't have money for anything. They'll take whatever they can," added a UPS driver.
Nassau County police say for the next six weeks especially, homeowners should change routines.
"Have the package delivered to your neighbor's house if you know they're going to be home," Nassau County police Inspector Kenneth Lack said. "Make arrangements where you have the package delivered to the rear or the yard, the garage. Or if you're going to be at work, have them deliver it to your place of business."
It's safest, police say, to require a signature for drop-off, or to pick up your packages at the warehouse or post office.
Instructions can be posted on the front door or when the online order is placed.
The Baldwin victims have been told by the vendor they will be given a full refund.
Next time, they say, they're shopping in a store, not ordering online.
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