Packages Stolen From Doorsteps

have received reports from two residents who say packages dropped off at their homes were stolen and police are worried more residents might have been hit without yet realizing it, authorities said.

There were similar thefts a couple years ago in which 30 residents had packages stolen from their doorsteps, Det./Sgt. Andrew Caggiano said Thursday.

He said both thefts occurred on Wednesday, with one of the thefts reported that day and the other reported on Thursday.

In one instance, the resident saw the package, but left it outside. When they later went to retrieve it, the package was gone. In the other case, the resident confirmed with the shipper it was delivered, but the resident never saw it.

Many of the thefts from a couple years ago were resolved when police stopped a car with three occupants and stolen packages, Caggiano said.

One theft on Wednesday occurred on Stoneybrook Road near Valhalla Road. The other theft occurred on Kanouse Lane off River Road, Caggiano said.

Police said residents whose expected packages are past due should check with their shippers to see if the items were delivered. Police said residents whose deliveries are missing should contact Montville police to file a report. Residents can report suspicious activity to Montville police by calling 973-257-4300.