Jacksonville police warn of stolen packages

Woman sees delivery stolen right before her eyes

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office has received several reports saying packages have been delivered to homes but have disappear from doorsteps.

Police said the holiday season is prime time for burglaries, robberies and theft, so it's important to take precautions when getting packages delivered.

Police have put up signs around the city warning people to lock their vehicles and be aware of suspicious activity.

One woman said her package was taken right in front of her. She said she saw the package on her doorstep when she got home, but within minutes of getting inside, her dog alerted her to something going on just a few feet away.

"I came into the house and went to change my clothes, and my dog started barking, and I noticed a woman in my driveway getting into her car," the victim said. "I didn't know who she was, and as soon as I opened the door, the package was gone and so was she."

According to a police report, the thief hit the mailbox as she pulled out. The owner of the house watched as the woman got out of her black BMW and checked for damage before taking off.

JSO spokeswoman Melissa Bujeda said some criminals even follow delivery trucks.

"There's no rhyme or reason if they're targeting a specific truck," Bujeda said. "We don't think so, it's just crime of opportunity, and unfortunately someone else is going to have Christmas off of your goods."

Bujeda said residents should check their cars, too, even if their doors are locked, and make sure nothing valuable is left in sight.

As for the package that was stolen, "It was just a pillow. So good for you, you got a pillow," the victim said.

The postal service offers a restricted delivery service that allows only a specific person to receive the package. But it's only available for Certified Mail, certain Insured Mail and Registered Mail.

Fed Ex and UPS allow people to send the package to the nearest office to pick it up. UPS only holds it for five days though.