Thieves looking to steal new iPhones are targeting delivery trucks to steal packages before buyers know what hit them, police in two Boston suburbs warned Wednesday.
Needham Police said they’ve received many reports in recent weeks about these types of thefts. The thieves, according to police, typically tail FedEx or other delivery trucks and wait for the package with the phone to be dropped off. Then, the suspect grabs the package before the rightful owner has a chance to grab the package. Police say some of these thieves will dress as Amazon drivers to avoid suspicion, and may ride on mopeds or regular cars.
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Investigators say the thieves have someone gained access to buy lists to track where they are being delivered.
Weston police released surveillance photos of a suspect accused in a similar crime in their town. Surveillance images show the man taking a package off the front steps of a home. That package contained a new iPhone 16, according to police.
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The sis[ect was wearing black pants, a black jacket and gray and white Nike sneakers. He was riding a dark-colored moped with a cargo container on the back.
Police in Reading reported a similar crime on Woburn Street on Tuesday. The suspect was carrying a red Door Dash bag.
To avoid becoming a victim, police suggest having packages require a signature, have someone at home to take in the package, or to buy a phone in person at the store instead of having it delivered. You can also opt to have your package delivered to a secure facility like the lockers at Whole Foods.
Residents are also encouraged to look out for vehicles that may be circling the neighborhood and call police to report anything suspicious.
