Rumson Police Warn: Watch Your Holiday Packages

Rumson, NJ - Be smart when having holiday packages delivered! That’s the message Rumson Police want to get out to the community this bustling holiday season.

So far, there’s only been one report of a package theft in Rumson: On Nov. 5, packages left unattended on the front stoop of a home on Avenue of Two Rivers were stolen, Rumson Det. Christopher Isherwood told Patch. The owner came home from work to find the packages gone, and estimated $400 worth of items were taken, he said.

Only one package theft is actually rare for this time of year, Isherwood said, noting that Rumson usually sees several package thefts by this time in December.

“It’s very, very common this time of year, and the holiday season has just begun - it’s not quite Christmas,” said Isherwood. ”We’re also hearing reports this is happening very frequently lately in nearby towns, such as Ocean Township.”

Here, Det. Isherwood gives tips to avoid becoming a victim this season:

1. Request a signature option when ordering an item so it will not be left unattended while the family is out.

2. Request that the item be held at the shipping center for pickup.

3. Tell a friend or a neighbor to keep an eye out and retrieve any packages for you while you are out.

As always, report any suspicious persons or vehicles 24/7. Call Rumson PD at 732-842-0500.