Mail Theft

[Archaic_Entity]

So, someone in my apartment complex (probably) has decided to start taking my packages that are getting dropped off in front of my door. So far two cable boxes and a package from a friend have been taken. Comcast confirms that they've been delivered. And UPS confirms my friend's package was dropped off at my place yesterday. I confronted everyone that was home in my complex asking them if they've seen the packages. Of course, no one claims to. So... here's what I'm thinking:

I fake mail a package to myself. Set something rather large and heavy in front of my door and attach a piece of fishing line from the bottom of it through into my apartment and attach something to the back end of it. When whoever it is decides to pick up this package the thing inside moves and, since I'll just be sitting around my living room at that time, I'll see it move and open the door and politely inform the person that if they do not return the rest of my stuff I will be calling the cops on them and intend to press whatever charges available. If they return the stuff I call it no harm and just remind them that it is a felony to steal someone else's mail.

My questions:
1) Is this a good idea? Does someone have a better idea?
2) After I confront them, what's the best way to control the situation? I realize it'll be a dynamic scenario, but I want my stuff back.
3) What are the legal recourses I have on this person/is their attempted theft of property enough to justify calling the cops? And if I do call the cops, is it enough that they may obtain a warrant in search of the other stolen property?

 

[Bunnykid68]

How about a cheap wireless webcam? They make some that are pretty small now.

 

[StrongSide]

I agree a little cheap wireless cam may be the way to go. That way you have a video and more than hear-say.

 

[Mackey]

I don't thing that confrontation would be a good idea.
I like the cam idea.
But better yet, what not just get a PO Box and get your stuff delivered to the post office. Yes, you have to make a special trip but I think it's worth it.
If you get alot of ground deliveries, I suggest getting a box from a UPS store
Mailbox Services

 

[Bunnykid68]

Rig a trip wire to dump cat urine on them, and I mean really rich flavorful cat urine

 

[Vince49]

???

Rig a trip wire to dump cat urine on them, and I mean really rich flavorful cat urine

So. Who is gonna' milk the cat? You?

 

[strahd71]

Rig a trip wire to dump cat urine on them, and I mean really rich flavorful cat urine

its not quite the same but one could use doe urine from your local sporting goods store.............. buying a bottle is easier than milking the cat

jake

 

[Bunnykid68]

its not quite the same but one could use doe urine from your local sporting goods store.............. buying a bottle is easier than milking the cat

jake

Milking the cat would be so much more fun though

 

[85t5mcss]

Apartments I used to live in would except packages at the front office. No you should not have to do that or get a PO Box but the thieves out there don't care what they steal. I like the cam idea that records. Then call the police. Press charges and make an example of them. Confrontation could be bad because you instigated it (BS because their theft was the instigation in my eyes) and were just looking for "trouble".

Make sure the office knows what has been happening.

 

[Indy_Guy_77]

I never had anything boosted from my place, but it didn't take me long to ask for any deliveries to be dropped off at the apt. complex office. I'd pick them up there.

I suggest that you start making those arrangements, too.

-J-

 

[combat45acp]

Jacking with the mail is a federal offense, I would call the postmaster and report it for sure.

 

[eatsnopaste]

Milking the cat would be so much more fun though

and you could still get it on film!

 

[mike8170]

How about a package rigged trapdoor into a pit of man-eating anteaters

 

[patience0830]

How about a package rigged trapdoor into a pit of man-eating anteaters

Man o man. It'd take anteaters forever to eat a feller! I believe you'd starve to death first.I do like the trap door idea though. A fall just far enough to break a leg and deep enough that the neighbors can't hear 'em screamin'.

 

[netsecurity]

Have you talked to the actual UPS delivery guy to make sure he is putting them at the right door? They may all be delivered by the same guy, who is consistently screwing up, and the recipient may be too lazy to walk to the other side of the apartments or something. If there is a North drive, South drive, or a number that could be transposed easily, try knocking on those doors.

 

[sepe]

Rig up something that kills them with fire when they trip it trying to steal your fake package.

 

[No Lot Lizards]

Ups will not driver release any more packages to your apartment wid.out a signature, if you file a claim on a stolen package. Sometimes they will change the entire apartment complex to signature required, or dr at office.

 

[Mad Macs]

Jacking with the mail is a federal offense, I would call the postmaster and report it for sure.

^^^^^^ This. We had a case in our dorm with stolen mail my freshman year and the Feds got involved. They do NOT mess around with this.

 

[lrahm]

Might check to see if any of the neighbor have any cameras. Like was previously stated, file a report with the post office. They also might make you file one withe P.D. Hope they catch the people.

 

[hoosierdoc]

probably someone close. Buy a battery powered IP webcam and put it in the box pointing up, secured in place. When they open it, have a sign saying "BUSTED" and be recording the video