Grand theft package, San Marcos: Sheriff’s Department goes viral video seeking thief

The Video UPS bandit must be stopped, according to San Diego County Sheriff’s investigators.

A woman who allegedly stole two UPS packages worth $100 from a San Marcos resident fell afoul of the residence’s surveillance cameras. San Diego County Sheriff’s investigators took the unusual step Monday of releasing a kind of reality TV-meets-package-theft video as a means of bringing the alleged package snatcher to justice.

Or as San Diego County sheriff’s Sgt. Daniel Deese put it:

“Take a good look at the surveillance photo of a woman wanted in a connection with a package theft in San Marcos. It happened just before 1 p.m Sunday March 31 at the 2500 block of Corbel Way, San Marcos.

“Surveillance video shows a woman knocking at the front door then holding up a piece of paper to cover her face from the camera. She then picks up two UPS packages and walks out of the camera’s view. They contain household items estimated at $100.

“Home security footage shows a brunette woman knocking on the front door of the residence while peering straight into the camera. She promptly holds up a piece of paper in an effort to hide her face.

“Someone out there knows the suspect. If you recognize her, call the San Marcos Sheriff’s Station and ask for Detective Monica Brown at (760) 510-5236.”

Keep these safety tips in mind when ordering items online:

• Choose a shipping option so you can sign for delivery. Request friends and relatives sending you a package to do the same and ask for a tracking number.
• Keep an eye on the package’s delivery status. Sign up for email or text alerts.
• Ship the package to another location such as your office if you won’t be home to receive it.
• Leave special instructions on where to deliver packages (behind bushes, side or back patio, etc.).
• Choose delivery pickup.
• Insure your packages
• Get to know your carriers.
• Be a good neighbor. Look out for each other.
• Report suspicious activity or vehicles to the Sheriff’s Department. Call (858) 565-5200.

It is a federal offense to steal mail or packages delivered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). These investigations are handled by the United States Postal Inspection Service.