CPD Notifies Residents Of Emerging Patterns Involving Package Thefts and Car Break-Ins

The Cambridge Police Department wants to make the community aware of two emerging patterns it is closely monitoring and responding to in the midst of the COVID-19 public health emergency. 

Package Thefts:
With more and more residents shopping for essential items online during the COVID-19 crisis, the Cambridge Police Department wants to once again remind residents to take precautions when having their packages delivered. Since March 23, 2020, 17 package thefts have been reported throughout the city with the largest concentrations occurring around the Central Square area, north and west of Harvard Square, and in North Cambridge. Using a data driven-approach, officers have prioritized directed patrols in these neighborhoods during the times thefts have been occurring.  The Department also wants to remind residents to follow these tips to help protect themselves and their shipped packages: 

• Track your packages online, so you have a better idea when it is scheduled to arrive, and/or sign up for delivery alert notifications.
• Have your packages delivered to your work address or to a neighborhood friend or family member who would be home, in the event that you are not.
• Consider installing a security camera or utilizing lockboxes that provide access codes to delivery companies.
• If you’re suspicious or have experienced this type of activity, report it to the Cambridge Police Department immediately by calling 617-349-3300 even if you have reported it to Postal Service.

Car Break-Ins:
The Cambridge Police Department is also monitoring an emerging pattern involving the breaking and entering of motor vehicles. There have been nine reported incidents of residents having their motor vehicles broken into since March 23, 2020.  These have also been primarily concentrated in and around the Central Square area.

The Cambridge Police have directed patrols in place in these areas and are encouraging motorists to take the following precautions to protect themselves, their vehicles, and their belongings from theft:

• NEVER LEAVE VALUABLES IN YOUR CAR. During this time, valuables include medical equipment, supplies and even hand sanitizer.
• If you must leave packages or valuables in your car, place them in the trunk or under a blanket to conceal them so that they are not exposed.
• Make sure all of your car doors are locked and windows are rolled up when leaving your vehicle, even if it is in the driveway.
  
  

Additional tips for how you can protect your vehicles and belongings from theft can be found at www.CambridgePolice.org/SafetyTips.

If you are a victim of this type of crime, even if your vehicle was not damaged or you did not suffer the loss of valuables, it is important that you call and report the incident to police at 617-349-3300.  This information is important and helps CPD track trends and patterns throughout the City.

For more information about crime in Cambridge, review the March 2020 edition of BridgeStat located at www.CambridgePolice.org/BridgeStat.

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