More Package Thefts In Morris Twp, Police Share Safety Tips

MORRIS TOWNSHIP, NJ — Police are sharing more package safety tips after another package theft in Morris Township this December.

A package was stolen from the front of a home on Rolling Hill Drive Thursday afternoon, Morris police said. There have been several thefts in the township in the past few months.

"Please consider having packages delivered to the rear of the home if possible and remove packages as soon as possible after delivery," Chief Mark DiCarlo said.

Morristown police have also issued warnings to homeowners during the busy online shopping period leading up to the holidays.

"Thieves looking to steal your packages will follow or watch for UPS, Fed Ex, US Mail, and other delivery service trucks so they can target your home after the parcels are delivered," Morristown police said.

They also shared these tips:

• Ask for a tracking number. Most major shipping companies offer this service at no charge. This number allows you to track your packages and notifies you when they will be delivered.
• Request a “Signature Delivery Option”. This requires a signature when the packages are delivered and ensures they will not be left at the front door.
• For high dollar items, pay extra to insure the package.
• Request a specific drop off time and date when you will be home to accept your packages.
• Arrange to have your packages held at the shipping service so you can pick them up.
• Ask the delivery service to leave your packages at a side or back door. An enclosed porch where packages are out of sight is also a good option.
• Have your packages delivered to your workplace.
• Have your packages delivered to the home of a relative or neighbor who will be there to accept them.
• Ask to have your packages delivered to a retail store so you can pick them up at your convenience.
• Ask a trustworthy neighbor to keep a “Watchful Eye” out for your packages. If they’re willing, ask them to safeguard your packages until you return home.
• Leave a note for the carrier instructing them where to leave your packages (Ex: backdoor).
• If your packages do not arrive as scheduled contact the sender immediately.
• If you observe what you believe is a theft in progress, call 9-1-1 and provide as much information as possible. Any suspicious activity in Morristown should also be reported to 973- 538-2200 so that uniformed police officers can investigate.