From Councilman Eric T. Costello:
RE: recent package delivery thefts (from UPS, FedEX, USPS, etc.) on the Peninsula, please note that there has been a sharp increase in the number of thefts from residents’ stoops of packages delivered during the daytime. Please note all of the following:
1- If you had a package stolen, the Major of the Southern District Police has specifically requested that you either dial 911 or call the Southern District Police Station at 410-396-2499. DO NOT CALL 311.
2- According to the Major: when you call 911, you are not taking away a Police presence from a more serious situation. The Police prioritize these calls, so if there is a violent crime and a theft of a package, the Police will respond to the violent crime first.
3- Alerting neighbors via Facebook and other social media is a great way to get out the word for caution, however, each and every theft needs to be reported to the Police. These are crimes. If the Police are not made aware immediately, they are hampered in their ability to combat and stop these thefts.
4- If you see any suspicious activity, please call 911. DO NOT CALL 311. 311 is for issues with City services, such as potholes or street lights. 911 is for crime or when you see suspicious activity.
5- I am actively working with the States Attorney and the Major of the Southern District to pursue leads on these thefts. Your participation is absolutely critical. We need you to dial 911 or 410-396-2499 if you are the victim of one of these thefts or see suspicious activity.
6- If you will not be home when a package is expected to arrive, you may do any of the following: 1) request signature only for ordered packages; 2) have your packages delivered to a neighbor who you know will be home; 3) have your packages delivered to local business that will hold them for you; 4) have your packages delivered to your place of work; or 5) pick-up your packages after work from the delivery facility. If you have a package delivered during the daytime with out proper instructions to mitigate this threat, you risk having your package stolen.
