For Immediate Release

Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2015

Contact: Jessica Sacco
Office: 978-769-5193
Cell: 978-270-5094
Email: [email protected]

West Newbury Police Advise Residents to Be Vigilant Securing Belongings This Holiday Season

WEST NEWBURY — As the West Newbury Police Department investigates two break-ins that occurred over the last week, Chief Lisa Holmes reminds the community to take extra safety precautions securing their homes, vehicles and online packages to prevent theft this holiday season.

On Thursday, Nov. 12, police received a report of a past breaking and entering into a home on Garden Street where a suspect stole a television, jewelry and cash.

Police also responded to a reported breaking and entering into a business on Main Street on Tuesday, Nov. 17. While nothing appears to be missing, nearby vehicles were rummaged through along with the business’ office.

“Always secure your homes and cars regardless of the time of day, where you live or how long you are away,” Chief Holmes said. “Additionally, with the increase in deliveries occurring over the next several weeks, this is an opportune time for thieves to be out taking advantage of packages that are left unattended. Avoid shipping your items to your home if you or someone is not regularly there to retrieve them. In most cases, stolen gifts are gone forever.”

FedEx and UPS offer services to assist customers. To ensure packages are not stolen, consider:

• Requesting a signature on your deliveries, especially those of high value, so they are not left unattended. You can also give specific instructions on where to leave a package so it is not left in a visible spot.

• Signing up for an email alert that will notify you when your delivery is set to arrive.

• Choosing an alternative destination — either at work or at a family member’s, friend’s or neighbor’s house where someone will be home to receive the delivery.

• Re-directing packages, even if they’re already on their way. Send them to your closest FedEx or UPS office, or another secure location.

• Setting up a vacation hold if you’ll be away during the holidays so gifts will not be delivered to an empty house.

If you arrive home to find your package has been stolen, immediately report it to police. However, if the item was not insured, the chances of receiving it back are slim.

Residents should NEVER accept a surprise package or gift where a payment is required. Additionally, do not give out any personal information when retrieving a delivery if you initiated the purchase.

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