Police warn of holiday package thefts in Lakeview

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Police are warning residents to watch out for thieves targeting holiday gift deliveries. This type of crime was reported recently in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood.

Police said they arrested five people on Monday in connection with three separate package theft incidents. There are many more thieves still out there, though, with an eye on your holiday gifts.

"The holidays are a time where it brings out the best in people - charitable giving and things like that - but unfortunately, some people do take advantage of that. They know that packages are being delivered," said Sgt. Brendan McCrudden, Chicago Police Dept.

Police are investigating a string of package thefts in Lakeview, in which boxes are snatched from porches, courtyards, or vestibules. Eyewitness News spotted several boxes left in unsecured areas.

"I, for one, sometimes have it delivered here, sometimes have it delivered to my office to mitigate the damage or potential damage," said Kevin Jones, a Lakeview resident.

"I've lived here for ten years. I've had packages that have disappeared from my porch, probably two or three times over the past few years," said John Johnson, a Lakeview resident.

Police say the thieves often follow delivery trucks looking for an opportunity, and they don't always know what they're taking.

In one incident in the 3200-block of North Kenmore, baby items were stolen.

"Sometimes it's worthless to them, and sometimes we're actually finding the boxes ripped open and the stuff just discarded because it wasn't of interest to them," Sgt. McCrudden said.

Police are reminding residents to use common sense: ship items to your office if you can't be home to receive it, and request signed delivery, so packages aren't left at your door. If you live in a building, don't prop doors open for strangers.

"If you value the package that's being delivered to you, have it delivered to your work, to your friend's work, to your parents' place," Johnson said.

Police say these types of crimes often go unreported because it can take a while to realize the packages were stolen. Sometimes, retailers offer to re-ship the items.