Package Thief In Bel Air Looks 'No Older Than 8': Sheriff

BEL AIR, MD — Authorities in Harford County say that a little girl was directed to steal a package in Bel Air. Now they are asking people to be extra vigilant for themselves and their neighbors.

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

"Watch as this young girl, no older than 8, runs into a yard, looks back to get directions, then steals a package from a porch! Who uses a child in this manner?!" the sheriff's office said.

The theft was reported to the sheriff's office on Sunday, Dec. 2.

Afterward, the Harford County Sheriff's Office advised having packages delivered somewhere safe and to be on the lookout.

"Please be aware of your surroundings, look for suspicious activity in your neighborhood, and have packages delivered to a safe and secure location if you can! Remember, if you see something suspicious, call us!" the sheriff's office said in a statement on Friday, Dec. 7.

Package Protection

Here are some tips to protect packages from so-called "porch pirates":

• Track shipments.
  • Try to be home when packages are scheduled to arrive.
  • Can't be there? Ask a neighbor to pick up your package until you get home.
  • Have packages delivered to work instead.
• Report suspicious behavior, persons and vehicles immediately to 911.
  • Note the make, model and tag number if a vehicle is involved.
  • Tell officers the direction of travel the suspect took.

Anyone with information about the Nov. 30 package theft is asked to call Deputy Matthew Turner at 410-612-1717.

Video courtesy of the Harford County Sheriff's Office.