Butler porch pirate stole packages moments after delivery: police
BUTLER, Wis. - Butler police said a porch pirate stole two packages from a home Monday afternoon, Dec. 4.
Police called the theft brazen, and neighbors said it was disturbing. The act was caught on camera.
The suspect was wearing a mask during the crime – but backed his car into the homeowner’s driveway. Police said it gave them a clear look at his license plate.
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"We had some carriers come in at 6:30 this morning just to deliver packages," said USPS worker Kim Mussfeldt. "Probably about 20 packages to an hour."
Mussfeldt said her routine is a little different this week after the package thefts.
Man sought in Butler porch pirate theft
"I’ve been trying – even just knowing what happened across the street – to ring doorbells and let people know there’s a package sitting outside if they are home," Mussfeldt said. "He was right there in her driveway."
The homeowner believes the suspect followed the delivery truck for blocks.
"Because of the short time frame, it raises questions," said Butler Police Chief David Wentlandt. "If you’re not going to be home during the day – maybe send it to a loved one, family member or neighbor that you know will be home."
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Luckily, police said there haven’t been any other reports of stolen packages.
"These are supposed to be joyous times of the year. Some of these gifts are probably for little kids," Mussfeldt said.
Police said they identified the suspect but have not yet made an arrest. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 262-781-2431.
Man sought in Butler porch pirate theft
In a statement, UPS said delivery workers are trained to report anything unsafe to police. If customers have concerns about their deliveries, they have options:
- Customers can sign up for a free service called UPS My Choice, which sends an email alert that lets them know when their package is scheduled to be delivered. UPS My Choice also allows customers to send a message to drivers telling them where a package should be placed, ie: behind the shed.
- If customers are at work during the day, they can use UPS My Choice to have packages delivered to where they work or to a UPS Access Point location.
- If consumers believe they experienced package theft from their residence, we suggest calling their local authorities, filing a police report and contacting the retailer for reimbursement or reshipment. Customers can also contact UPS and we will work with the retailer.