5 arrested in 3 Lakeview holiday package thefts

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Police are warning Chicago residents of thieves taking holiday packages from doorsteps after they are delivered.

Officers arrested five people on Monday in connection with three separate package theft incidents.

Travis Slaughtaire, 21, of the 4500-block of North Sheridan Road in Chicago, was charged with felony theft in connection with an incident that occurred in the 1700-block of West Diversey Avenue around 10:10 a.m. Monday.

Elizabeth Quilez, 49, of the 6200-block of West Byron Street in Chicago, was charged with two counts of felony theft in connection with incidents that occurred in the 6200- and 6300-blocks of West Patterson Avenue around 2:45 p.m. Monday.

Authorities said to expect more thefts, especially since many people made online purchases over the holiday shopping period that will be delivered by companies like FedEx, UPS and the United States Postal Service.

"It does tend to tick up as the holidays get closer. More people are ordering packages, especially on Cyber Monday. Order stuff online, it gets delivered to your door. So the thieves unfortunately take advantage of that as well," Chicago Police Sgt. Brendan McCrudden said.

A UPS driver called police Friday to tell them about a man trying to steal packages from him in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood, where authorities said a string of incidents occurred. Boxes were snatched from porches, courtyards and vestibules. Police said the thieves often follow delivery trucks, looking for an opportunity to steal - and they do not always know what they're taking.

A man was seen stealing a package of "baby items" from a home in the 3200-block of North Kenmore Avenue. ABC7 Eyewitness News spotted several boxes left in unsecured areas.

Police said to use common sense, advising buyers to ship items to their offices if they cannot be home to receive them. They also suggested requesting signed delivery, so packages are not left at the front door. If customers live in a building, they should not prop open doors for strangers.

"Especially living here in the city for a few years, I've heard of different people having packages stolen. Everyone has their own little routine and shipping practices to prevent it from happening," said Kevin Jones, a Lakeview resident.