'Real-Life Grinch' Arrested In Escondido, Police Say

ESCONDIDO, CA – The holiday season may have been saved for many people, thanks to an Escondido police officer.

Dozens of allegedly stolen packages were recovered after Escondido police Officer Adam St. John stopped a car for a traffic violation around 11:15 p.m. Dec. 16 at Escondido Boulevard and Valley Parkway. After discovering that the driver had a felony warrant, St. John searched the car and found about 30 packages containing clothes, tools and electronics, according to the Escondido Police Department.

"The packages, many of which were torn open Amazon boxes, appeared to have been stolen before the intended recipient could pick them up," police Lt. Ed Varso said.

"We have identified many of the victims in this case already and are working to reunite them with their stolen property," he said, adding that victims confirmed the packages were shipped to their homes and stolen after being delivered.

Jerry Rabb, 22, of El Centro, was arrested on his outstanding warrant and charged with possession of stolen property.

"Investigators cannot confirm if this Grinch's heart is in fact two sizes too small," Varso said.

Anyone with additional information about this case is asked to contact Det. Elizabeth Hundley at 760-839-4965.

Image via Escondido Police Department