Investigators nab suspected package thieves, recover stolen property

JACKSON, Tenn. — Thieves target packages this holiday season. Investigators said they follow delivery trucks then strike when no one is watching.

“Everybody thinks it’s a time for giving, but some of the guys that are out here think it’s a time for taking,” Jackson-Madison County Crime Stoppers Director Mike Johnson said.

Johnson said thieves stole packages on eight separate occasions in Jackson-Madison County this month. Johnson said they got away with everything from electronics to toys and food. “These people go out and they follow these trucks,” he said.

The U.S. Postal Service said carriers will leave packages on the porch. USPS Mail Clerk Tiaye Owens said you can get a signature confirmation for just under $3 extra. “It’s a little extra to pay for, but it’s a little extra security involved, so just a better peace of mind, especially during the holidays,” he said.

Investigators say package thefts increase around the holidays. Some customers said they are not surprised. “I hate that it happens, but that’s the world we live in today,” Connie Thornburg, a USPS customer, said.

Others said they are not concerned about package thieves. “We’ve obviously ordered a lot of stuff online,” Glen Pendergrass, a USPS customer, said. “It’s been delivered over the past few weeks, and it’s always on the front porch.”

Johnson said thanks to a concerned citizen and cameras, investigators made two arrests and recovered stolen property. “That should stop it or slow it down a lot,” Johnson said.

Deputies said those stolen items will be returned to the rightful owners. Johnson encouraged people to look out for their neighbors. If you see something suspicious, call police or the sheriff’s office.

You can also contact Crime Stoppers at 731-424-TIPS (8477).