The Berlin Police Department is investigating the recent theft of a package along Tansboro Road in the early-morning hours of Nov.
According to Lt. Joshua Smith, officers were alerted later that afternoon, at around 5:14 p.m., after a resident reported suspicious activity captured on home security footage.
“Around 3 a.m. the thief had a shopping cart and was stealing packages that appeared to be left out overnight,” Smith said. “Ring doorbell video provided by residents shows the suspect walking along the roadway and running up to a home’s front door around 3:19 a.m., though the footage did not clearly capture the individual’s identity.”
Police believe the suspect was targeting packages delivered and left outside overnight. The incident highlights a recurring issue as the holiday shopping season begins, when increased online orders often lead to a spike in package thefts and other crimes of opportunity.
“The area as a whole has been impacted by thefts and burglaries to vehicles,” Smith explained. “Around the holidays, we traditionally see an increase in thefts as everyday people receive more deliveries. And criminals know this.”
Smith urged residents to protect their properties by retrieving packages promptly, scheduling deliveries for times when someone is home or providing delivery drivers with secure or concealed dropoff locations.
“Do not leave packages overnight,’ Smith emphasized. “Remove them upon delivery and provide a spot for delivery drivers to hide packages out of sight from the roadway. As always, keep lights on, lock doors, don’t leave keys or bags in vehicles and report any suspicious activity immediately.”
Residents with information about the Tansboro Road theft or who recognize the suspect are encouraged to contact the police by dialing 911, calling (856) 783-4900, emailing Detective@berlinpolice.net or calling the
anonymous tip line at https://www.berlinpolice.net/anonymous-tipscgar
