IRVINE, CA – A suspect has been arrested for committing a series of package thefts from the doorsteps of homes in Irvine. Anthony Palusso, 30, was arrested April 22, 2015, for misdemeanor petty theft and possession of stolen property.
Irvine Police Department (IPD) detectives determined that the suspect would drive through residential neighborhoods in Irvine looking for packages in plain view. He would stop his vehicle, quickly steal the package, flee the scene, and continue searching for more packages. Many of the thefts occurred between the hours of noon and 5:00 p.m., after packages had been delivered but before most residents and potential witnesses returned from work.
On April 22, 2015, an observant resident saw Palusso steal a package from a doorstep and obtained a license plate number. IPD officers located the suspect in the area and performed a stop of his vehicle. The suspect was found in possession of stolen packages from multiple residences.
On April 10, 2015, Palusso was arrested for the same criminal activity after he was observed by IPD officers stealing packages from doorsteps. The suspect was arrested at that time for misdemeanor petty theft and possession of stolen property. He was out of custody pending a court appearance at the time of the April 22, 2015, thefts.
IPD urges residents to consider these tips to protect against the theft of packages from your home: Bring your deliveries inside as soon as possible; Have items delivered to your workplace if you are not home during the day; Have items delivered to a trusted neighbor or nearby friend; Opt for your package to be delivered to the nearest postal store; Use tracking numbers and delivery notifications; Ask that your package require a signature for delivery.
If a tracked package is missing, call 949-724-7000 to report the incident to IPD.
IRVINE POLICE DEPARTMENT
One Civic Center Plaza, Irvine, CA 92606
(949) 724-7000 www.irvinepd.org
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Since its incorporation in 1971, Irvine has become a nationally recognized city, with a population of 250,384, spans 66 square miles and is recognized as one of America’s safest and most successful master-planned urban communities. Top-rated educational institutions, an enterprising business atmosphere, sound environmental stewardship, and respect for diversity all contribute to Irvine’s enviable quality of life. This family-friendly city features more than 16,000 acres of parks, sports fields and dedicated open space and is the home of the Orange County Great Park – the first great metropolitan park of the 21st century. For more information, please visit cityofirvine.org.