Police Warning: Package Thieves Dressing In Fluorescent Clothing

ALAMEDA, CA — Package thieves are using a new tactic to get away with their crimes, according to the Alameda Police Department, and they've released a video showing a recent police chase to prove their point. "APD has also noticed a trend where suspects will wear fluorescent clothing or vest to give the impression that they are conducting legitimate business under the guise of a maintenance or utility worker," they report.

The video shows a motorcycle officer pulling up alongside a car with a suspect wearing a fluorescent hoodie. As the officer calls in information to dispatch, the car takes off. The officer caught up with the suspects and they were detained. Police say stolen packages were recovered. It turns out that the vehicle was also stolen.

What behavior is typical of package thieves? Police say to give them a call if you see the following:

• Unauthorized people in restricted areas
• Vehicles driving slowly and aimlessly through neighborhoods or parking lots
• People peering into parked cars, over fences, or into homes
• People dressed inappropriately for weather or occasion (i.e., heavy coats in warm weather)
• People who change their behavior when they noticed they have been seen

If you are ordering items for delivery, APD offers these safety tips:

• Be available for delivery
• Track your packages
• Require a signature
• If possible, have packages delivered to your place of employment
• Consider in-store or Amazon locker pickup
• Ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail or packages if you will be away for an extended period of time
• Consider adding a security camera to monitor your home.

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