Belleville Police Share Package Theft Prevention Tips After Recent Arrest

BELLEVILLE, NJ — Belleville police are sharing some tips to help foil would-be package thieves after a recent arrest in the township.

According to the Belleville Police Department, a resident reported a package theft on DeWitt Avenue around 2 p.m. on Monday.

Police said the theft was captured on a Ring video camera. The suspect can be seen arriving at the scene in a gray Jeep Grand Cherokee and removing a package from the premises, then fleeing the area.

Belleville police arrested a 35-year-old Irvington resident and charged him with third-degree package theft. The victim’s package was recovered and returned to its owner.

• See Related: Thief Swipes Van Loaded With Amazon Packages In Belleville, Police Say

THEFT PREVENTION TIPS

Belleville police released the following tips to help prevent package thefts:

• Track your deliveries and bring packages inside as soon as possible after arrival
• Request delivery signature confirmation when available, especially for high-value items
• Use delivery instructions such as leaving packages in a less visible area or behind a locked door or gate
• Consider alternative delivery locations, including a trusted neighbor, workplace, or secure package locker
• Install motion-activated lighting or security cameras to deter would-be thieves
• Have packages held or deliveries paused if you will be away for an extended period
• Report suspicious activity in your neighborhood to the Belleville police immediately

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com