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Samantha Hayes reportingWe go through a lot to make sure our holiday packages are in the mail, on time.
But what about the presents we receive? We have a warning about a petty crime that goes up during the holidays.
Police say it is a big problem now. In fact, the busiest mailing day of the year is coming up on the 19th. That means a lot of stuff is heading your way.
Crooks are looking for gift certificates and gift cards any kind of money in your mailbox, even packages left outside. Its all easy to find.
That special package travels a long way before making it to your door.
Steven Kirkham, UPS Delivery: “Our most important goal is for the person expecting the package to get the package."
Sometimes that happens right away. But more often than not...nobody is home
Steven Kirkham, UPS Delivery: "We don't want it in sight and we don't want it in a place where its going to get wet with snow."
…or stolen.
Its easy to peruse a neighborhood anywhere and find lots of packages outside the door, or even easier: Money in the mailbox.
Rosie Rivera, Tayorsville Police Department: “They are looking for gift certificates, any kind of gift cards, money in cards, with the Christmas cards that are being mailed out."
It was happening in Taylorsville before police caught Charles Robert Garcia. Police say mail theft charges are pending.
Rosie Rivera, Tayorsville Police Department: “Many people just have drug habits and that's the way to supply it is to go out and steal other people's mail."
The UPS driver we talked with says often drivers will leave packages in a designated spot determined by the recipient beforehand. You can also have a neighbor watch for packages.
When sending mail, you may want to just drop it off at the post office.
