Two Package Thefts Reported In Dedham

DEDHAM, MA — The holiday season may be over, but that hasn't meant an end to package thefts in Dedham.

Chief Michael d'Entremont announced Monday that Dedham Police responded to two reports this weekend of packages that were taken from outside homes in different areas of town. Both thefts remain under investigation.

"No matter the time of year, criminals will still attempt to prey on individuals who order items online and have them delivered when they're not home to collect them," Chief d'Entremont said in a release. "I want to encourage residents to be mindful of the risks of leaving packages in plain sight, and follow these tips to help prevent their belongings from being stolen."

To best ensure that your packages are not taken, Dedham Police recommend the following strategies:

• Request notifications on your deliveries, via phone or email, to monitor your packages in transit and upon delivery.
• Always require a signature on your deliveries to ensure packages are never left unattended.
• Consider sending deliveries to an alternate location where someone will be able to receive them – whether that be a workplace, a neighbor or friend’s house, or a FedEx or UPS location.
• Schedule your delivery for a specific date and time that you’re expected to be home.
• Set up a vacation hold if you plan on traveling during the holidays so gifts won’t be left on the doorstep.
• Be aware of “tailgating,” which refers to the people who follow delivery vehicles and steal the packages after they are dropped off.
• If you find your package has been stolen, reach out to Dedham Police and report it immediately.
• Never accept a surprise delivery where a payment is required, and never give out personal information when receiving a delivery that you purchased.

Information in this story was provided by the Dedham Police Department.

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