Sheriff warns of thieves as uptick in mail and package thefts reported in Augusta County
VERONA — Porch pirates are on the prowl and mail thefts have increased in the northern part of Augusta County, Sheriff Donald Smith warned in a recent press release.
The impacted areas include Weyers Cave, Mount Sidney, Fort Defiance and Verona.
Smith said the rise in thefts have taken place during the past several weeks leading up to the holidays. He said Christmas cards and valuables delivered by mail are being targeted.
Discarded mail that was previously taken has also been appearing on some county roads, the sheriff said.
"FedEx and UPS packages left at the door are being stolen throughout this area as well," Smith said in the press release.
The uptick in suspicious activity is typical for the season. "We've had this before this time of year," the sheriff said.
Jewelry, clothing, cell phones and checks are some of the items reported stolen, according to the sheriff's office.
Smith asked that any theft victims file a report with the Augusta County Sheriff's Office.
The sheriff also said:
— Be aware of your surroundings and people or vehicles that may look out of place. If you see something suspicious, call the sheriff's office immediately at (540) 245-5333.
— If you are able to do so safely, get as much information as possible — vehicle make, model and license plate information. We are not asking you to chase any vehicles.
— If packages are scheduled for delivery, track the delivery date.
— If practical, have family members or friends remove mail and packages as soon as possible upon delivery.
— Remove mail and packages daily.
The sheriff's warning about the thefts coincides with a rash of car break-ins reported in Augusta County and Staunton.
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Brad Zinn is the cops, courts and breaking news reporter at The News Leader. Have a news tip? Or something that needs investigating? You can email reporter Brad Zinn (he/him) at bzinn@newsleader.com. You can also follow him on Twitter.
This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: Mail, package thefts on the increase in August County
