To deter Holiday package thefts, Elk Grove Police launching 'Operation Grinch' bait package sting

With the growth of online shopping and door front deliveries, there has been a corresponding rise in package thefts nationally. With the seasonal rise in package delivery, the Elk Grove Police announced the launch of their Holiday season Operation Grinch.

The operation starts today and will be in effect until the end of the month. As part of the operation, police will be planting so-called bait packages and increase neighborhood patrols of unmarked cars.

Patrol officers will focus on  suspicious activity occurring in and around neighborhoods related to package theft activity. These operations will be conducted during various dates, times and locations.

Other police departments in the region have ongoing bait package programs to thwart the growing problem. As part of its program, Citrus Heights Police regularly post pictures of suspects arrested in their program on social media.   

As a reminder, the Elk Grove Police Department would like to provide the following package theft prevention tips:

· Have your package delivered to the home of a relative, friend or neighbor that you know will be home.
· Use lockers offered by various delivery services.
· Set up notifications to track your package
· Get your packages delivered to your work.
· Require a signature on delivery.
· Have your package held at your local post office for pickup.
. Leave special delivery instructions when ordering- ask the carrier to place the package in an area out of view.