Recent Burglaries and Package Thefts

In the past 3 to 4 months, there have been several incidents where unlocked garages were entered to get to the vehicles parked inside. These incidents have primarily happened in the Myers Park and Eastover neighborhoods. Because the structure of the garage is entered unlawfully, these cases are considered burglaries.

In every case, the vehicles stored inside the garages were also left unlocked and several items have been stolen from victims. In none of the cases were items stolen from the garages, only from the vehicles.

There have been at least two incidents where house keys were left inside the unlocked vehicles. The suspects have removed the keys from the vehicles and attempted to enter the homes.

Our department has routinely stressed the importance of securing your property. Vehicles should be kept locked. Garages should have the roll down door closed and pedestrian entrances should be kept locked as well. Make sure that you remove valuables from your vehicles. This should include keys. Do not hand a thief the key to your home. Did your vehicle come with a valet key? If so, is it still in the glove box or console? Do not provide a thief the means to come back later and steal your car.

 

On another note, the Providence Division has recently received reports of people stealing packages from front porches after they were delivered by FedEx, USPS or UPS. Please consider the following tips when ordering items or if you are expecting a delivery.

     Some tips to keep in mind:

  • Choose a shipping option that requires you to sign for delivery.
  • Check on the package's delivery status online so you can try to be home when it arrives.
  • Leave a note asking the delivery service to leave the package with a neighbor.
  • Have the package shipped to another location where someone can receive it, like your office or the home of a relative or friend that is home during the day.
  • Ask the delivery service to hold your package for customer pick-up.
  • File a theft report immediately if you think your package was stolen, and contact your credit card company to find out if it offers a purchase-protection service that might reimburse you for stolen purchases.