Woman Arrested In Newport Beach Package Thefts

NEWPORT BEACH (AP) — Police say a woman has been arrested for allegedly stealing Christmas packages that had been delivered to Newport Beach homes.

A Newport Beach Police Department statement says 42-year-old Melanie Astin was arrested Thursday on suspicion of grand theft.

Packages left by UPS, FedEx and other couriers have been stolen from the front porches of homes throughout the city.

Detectives stopped Astin Thursday afternoon after they spotted her allegedly following a delivery truck. They say Astin was arrested after police recovered previously delivered holiday packages.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information about the thefts can contact Newport Beach police.

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