Full Notification

Date: December 20, 2018

No: 18-33
Subject: Theft of Packages

On Thursday, December 20, at 9:51am, Racine Police responded to the 3000 block of Arlington Ave for the report of a theft. It was reported that someone removed packages off of a porch in the area drove away. A description of the vehicle was given and it was located a short time later. Two people were eventually detained and transported to the Police Department for questioning. During the investigation it was discovered that there were other packages from other areas of the city. The investigation is ongoing at this time.

Racine Police investigators are interested in any additional information that anyone may have about this crime. Any witnesses, or citizens with information, are urged to call the Racine Police Department Investigations Unit at (262) 635-7756.

Those who wish to remain anonymous may contact Crime Stoppers at (262) 636-9330, or text 274637 (CRIMES). Text message should begin with RACS.

This is a reminder to be aware this holiday season as deliveries of packages are more frequent.
Below are some tips to help protect your items this holiday season.

1. Don’t let your packages sit – Monitor when your packages are expected to arrive. Many businesses provide a tracking number so you can see when your package does arrive.

2. Talk to your neighbors – If you have neighbors who are home during the day, consider asking them to collect your packages on the delivery date.

3. Ship to an alternate address – Some companies allow you to ship your packages directly to your place of business. Also, consider shipping your packages to a friend or relative’s home.

4. Ship to the store – Some retailers allow you to ship to a store near you. This may not be as convenient but it does provide security and helps avoid long lines at the register. Some stores even offer special parking near the entrance.

5. Hi tech solutions – If you order packages all year round, it may be wise to invest in security cameras or mobile apps on your smart phones.

6. Install a package lockbox – A lockbox can be installed on your front porch. Once installed, share your code with your delivery service.

7. Signature on delivery - Consider having your packages delivered only when someone is available to sign for them.

8. Insure your holiday packages – Package thefts increase around the holidays and it may be wise to insure your packages this time of year. This way, if your package is stolen, you can be reimbursed for your loss.

9. Ship to your local pack and ship store – If you have a UPS, FedEx, or other locally owned packing and shipping store nearby, consider sending your packages there.

Hopefully implementing one of these safety techniques will give you peace of mind this hectic holiday season.