Grinch Strikes In San Jose As Neighborhood Hit With Rash Of Package Thefts
SAN JOSE (KCBS) – Residents in the Willow Glen neighborhood in San Jose have reported a series of brazen package thefts this holiday season.
San Jose police said residents have reported seeing a gold-colored van following delivery trucks, waiting for packages to be dropped off. In one case, a resident actually caught a man stealing a package and grabbed it back from him.
"There have been reports in the city of San Jose regarding individuals who are following around delivery trucks. UPS, FedEx, trucks like that," said San Jose police spokesperson Albert Morales.
Police said it's not uncommon during the holiday season, and Morales urges residents to take precautions, like having packages delivered to a work address.
"I'm concerned that is bringing more crime into our area but as for me personally, since I have all my packages delivered to work, it's not a terrible concern," said David Ott, a Willow Glen resident.
Tim Miller, a spokesperson for FedEx, said their drivers are trained to be vigilant.
"They're constantly on the lookout for activity like this and they're looking out for people who might be following them," Miller said.
Morales said in the past, video surveillance from homeowners has helped them arrest package thieves.