Cambridge police release 'heat map' for package thefts

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — The holiday shopping season is nearly here, and that means an increase in package deliveries and thefts.

Cambridge police say there have been close to 30 packages stolen in Cambridge since September. With the holiday shopping season about to be in full swing, police are urging residents to be on alert.

Police say the thieves drive by houses and steal packages off porches. In some cases, they even watch the delivery trucks to see where they make stops.

Chauncey, Wendell and Peabody streets in Cambridge are some of the hot spots. Police say homes on smaller streets may be particularly vulnerable. Most of the thefts are happening between Wednesday and Friday in the afternoon, when many people are at work.

Police say it's a good idea to have a neighbor pick up your package or to go and sign for it yourself. Some carriers also allow you to sign up for notifications so you know when your package has been delivered.

Police have released a map showing where the highest number of thefts happened last year, so people who live in the area can prepare adequately for this year.

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