Crime & Safety

Altadena Sheriff's Warns About Holiday Package Theft

Packages left by UPS or Fedex outside of homes are a target for thieves every holiday season, police say.

A series of in South Pasadena and Alhambra has Altadena Sheriff's officers warning Altadenans to be careful of not leaving delivered packages sitting out on their porches.

South Pasadena police issued an advisory to watch for package thefts after several incidents this week, and ended up arresting two people for theft on Tuesday.

A resident at the 2000 block of Primrose Avenue in South Pasadena saw someone steal a package from a neighbor's porch across the street on Nov. 30 around 2:25 p.m.

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The witness called South Pasadena Police, who began a search for the suspect. During the search, an anonymous caller informed police of the address where she believed the suspects reside in Alhambra. 

South Pasadena and Alhambra Police found numerous pieces of stolen mail and parcels at that house, and arrested two suspects believed to be involved with those thefts, police said.

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Lt. Joe Dempsey of the Altadena Sheriff's Station said Altadena has not yet had any incidents this season.

He said that there are a couple of veteran deliveryman who work in parts of Altadena that know a lot of their clients and are good at avoiding leaving packages behind.

"The UPS guy on the Eastern Altadena introduced himself to us one time and said he's been working in the area for 15, 20 years," Dempsey said.

He said Altadena also tends to avoid an increase in holiday thefts because there are not a lot of major shopping areas in town- packages left in cars are a major target for thieves, he said.

At the same time, Dempsey said, Altadena residents should be cautious and follow the following tips:

  • Require a signature from UPS, FedEx, and the Post Office.  Do not allow packages to be left on your door step.  Historically there is an increase in packages being stolen from residences during the holiday season.
  • Do not leave valuables in your vehicles or in plain sight (especially newly purchased gifts).
  • Lock your vehicles (whether it is parked on the street, in a parking lot, or in your driveway.)
  • Lock and secure your home when you leave.  Close and lock all windows and doors and set the alarm.
  • If you are going to be out of town, let your neighbors know.  Stop your mail and your newspapers. 
  • If you see any suspicious persons or behavior please call the Altadena Sheriff's Station at 626-798-1131.


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