Police Investigating Thefts of Packages from Homes in Wheaton-Glenmont Area

These surveillance images show a woman police are seeking in connection with the thefts of packages from the front doors around Wheaton. Click to enlarge. | MCPD

Montgomery County police are investigating the thefts of packages taken from in front of three homes in the Wheaton-Glenmont area.

The thefts occurred between July 24 and Aug. 26 and were committed by the same woman.

Investigators on Monday released surveillance photographs are asking for the public’s help to identify her. Detectives also believe that this suspect is operating a dark colored Mitsubishi Outlander Sport SUV.

The following thefts were reported to police:

• July 24 at about 6 p.m. – 3900 block of Isbell Street
• July 31 at about 5:24 p.m. – 3500 block of May Street
• Aug. 26 at about 4:37 p.m. – 1400 block of Billman Lane

Anyone with information regarding the woman is asked to call the Wheaton police district Patrol Investigations Unit at 240-773-5476. Those who wish to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). Crime Solvers will pay a cash reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to an arrest.

The Montgomery County Police Department reminds residents of ways to ensure that packages are delivered to them safely and securely:

• Choose A Delivery Address Wisely
• Choose to Have Package Delivered to An Attended Location

When you order something online, consider sending the package to a place where you know someone will be available to receive it – your workplace or a friend or neighbor’s home.

• Choose to Have Package Delivered to Carrier Location

Have your deliveries sent to the nearest shipping company center. Many shipping carriers will hold the package for up to five days.

• Choose In-Store Pick Up

Many retailers provide the option of purchasing an item online and picking it up at the nearest retail location.

• Know When Your Package Will Be Delivered – Sign Up For Notification Services

Many shipment companies offer services to help you track your deliveries by receiving text messages or an e-mail. You can then plan on being home at the time of delivery or ask a trusted friend or neighbor to stop by the delivery location and retrieve the package.

After receiving a notification alert and you determine that you won’t be home, many carriers allow you to re-route your shipment to another location or to the carrier’s facility for later pick-up.

• Require A Signature

Many shipping companies offer a service that requires a signature for a package to be released.

• Provide Delivery Instructions

Many carriers allow residents to provide instructions on where the deliveries should be placed at the home (side porch, garage door, etc.)

• Insure Your Package

Consider insuring your package. Contact your chosen mail carrier for coverage policies and requirements.

The Department urges residents who shop online to follow these guidelines to help ensure their packages arrive safely.

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