Dad Of 5-Year-Old Charged In Bel Air Package Theft: Sheriff

BEL AIR, MD — Authorities have issued an arrest warrant in connection with the Bel Air package theft seen around the country. The "grinch" has been identified as Gary Martin Smith, 46, of Abingdon, and authorities allege he instructed his 5-year-old daughter to steal a pair of boots.

Officials credited an anonymous tip with breaking open the case.

The theft occurred around noon on Friday, Nov. 30. Video showed a child being directed to take a package from the front door of a home in 400 block of Inez Court in Bel Air.

Deputies were notified of the theft on Sunday, Dec. 2.

Once the Harford County Sheriff's Office posted video of the theft on its Facebook page on Friday, Dec. 7, officials said a tip came in from an anonymous source identifying the girl who was seen taking the package from the Bel Air home.

The video was also released by multiple news outlets, including "Good Morning America," after the sheriff's office put out the call for help, stating: "...it’s hard to believe that a Grinch decided to use Cindy Lou Who this year to steal packages."

Through the positive identification of the girl and subsequent investigation, authorities found that Smith was in the area at 4 p.m. when he instructed his 5-year-old daughter to take the package from a porch.

While a warrant has been issued for his arrest, the "grinch" appears to be missing in action, according to officials.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Harford County Sheriff’s Office at 410-838-6600.

Once found, authorities say Smith will be charged with theft under $100, conspiracy to commit theft, contributing to the delinquency of a minor and fourth-degree burglary.

SEE ALSO: Package Thief In Bel Air Looks 'No Older Than 8,' Sheriff Says

Photo of Gary Martin Smith courtesy of the Harford County Sheriff's Office.