A Brazen Package Theft Caught on Camera
In Huntington, New York, a man was caught on surveillance video walking into a home to steal a package, highlighting a growing issue of package thefts that are troubling residents. The incident occurred in broad daylight, illustrating the increasing boldness of thieves targeting deliveries, especially pricey electronics, moments after they’re left on doorsteps.
The Incident Unfolds
The theft happened at the residence of John Scarpati on Maple Place. Scarpati, who had recently ordered a new iPhone, assumed it was safe after delivery, especially since his grandmother had brought it inside. However, shortly after she did so, it was taken. In the surveillance footage, the thief can be seen arriving in a minivan. He nonchalantly approaches the house, opens the front door, grabs the phone, and walks away. Scarpati, who chose not to show his face on camera, expressed disbelief over the audacity of the theft.
The thief was mistaken for Scarpati by his grandmother, who had seen him leave with the package in hand. She assumed it was Scarpati retrieving the item, as she believed he had forgotten something and was heading back out. This misconception provided the thief a perfect opportunity to walk away undetected. For Scarpati, who had seen many stories of such thefts online, it was a surreal experience to become a victim himself.
Another Case of Theft the Same Day
Unfortunately, Scarpati wasn’t the only victim of such theft on the same day. Just a few hours later, a similar incident happened to another resident nearby. Linda Learned, who lives just around the block, experienced the theft of an Apple Watch. The package had been delivered by FedEx to her porch, but by the time she went to retrieve it, it was gone. Learned reviewed footage from her Blink camera, which confirmed that the Apple Watch had been left on her porch by the delivery driver, only to be taken minutes later.
Theories and Speculation on the Theft Pattern
The incidents have led to various theories among the residents. One such theory involves the possibility that the thefts could be an inside job, with thieves potentially accessing delivery notifications and tracking updates to time their thefts precisely. Another theory suggests that the thieves could be tech-savvy and have managed to hack into residents’ phones, emails, or delivery accounts. With access to such information, they could intercept delivery notifications and ensure they arrive at the property as soon as a package is dropped off.
Protecting Against Package Theft
The string of thefts has led residents to consider ways to better secure their deliveries. Scarpati, Learned, and other local residents have been advised on steps they can take to reduce the risk of package theft. Delivery companies like FedEx recommend requiring a signature upon delivery to ensure packages aren’t left unattended. Another suggestion is to coordinate with neighbors who can retrieve packages promptly if the recipient isn’t home. Additionally, residents are encouraged to invest in secure lock boxes or storage containers large enough for packages, which can only be accessed by the homeowner.
For those at home during the delivery, listening for the delivery truck and promptly collecting the package is another simple yet effective strategy. While these steps may not guarantee complete security, they can certainly serve as deterrents for would-be thieves.
FedEx’s Response and Ongoing Investigation
FedEx is aware of the incidents and has confirmed that they are working closely with local law enforcement to investigate these cases of package theft. The company routinely reminds its team members about the importance of both personal safety and package security, particularly as such thefts appear to be on the rise. The Suffolk County Police Department has confirmed an active investigation into the recent thefts, including those on Maple Place in Huntington.
As online shopping continues to grow, package theft is becoming a more prevalent issue in residential areas, and incidents like those experienced by Scarpati and Learned are raising concerns among community members. Taking precautions can help minimize the risk, but the recent thefts in Huntington serve as a stark reminder of the increasing boldness of package thieves.