When Joe Rutter saw surveillance video from his front porch, it was clear, a woman stole a package just minutes after it was delivered to his Montgomery Avenue home.
Rutter installed the camera after numerous packages disappeared from his doorstep.
"I've had a couple pairs of shoes missing. An Amazon package from yesterday, I've actually had some prescription medications that were taken off the front porch," Rutter said. "The delivery companies all said they were delivered. They weren't the same company or the same driver. But, they were never there when I got home."
This was the first time he's caught someone in the act. The video shows a woman, talking on a cell phone, casually stroll up the walkway and pick up a box on the doorstep. She then walks away.
"The issue of package thefts usually is the exposure. How long it sits out in full view of people going by," said Sgt. Mike Fisher of Metro Nashville Police.
Rutter said in the future he may have some items shipped to his work, rather than home. An idea Sgt. Fisher can get behind. Fisher also said it's good to have neighbors that know you.
"You'll be quick to look across the street and see someone over on my porch, you'll be quick to call police, maybe get a tag number," Fisher said.
Fisher said Rutter did the right thing by getting a camera. Video or still images are the best way for police to help capture thieves.
USPS has the following tips on how to avoid package theft:
- Avoid sending cash by mail
- Don't leave packages unattended
- Consider shipping packages to a neighbor who you know will be home
- Give custom instructions to the delivery driver to have them leave the package in a specific location.
- Send packages to shipping centers for pick up
- Consider getting a P.O. box
