How do you handle thefts in an apartment building?

Question

I live in a moderate size apartment complex. I have lived here for over a year now. I never had problems receiving mail or newspaper until a new family moved in four months ago. I order various items through the mail. I wondered why I never received several stuffed animals, a few clothing items, and a vcr from ebay. I became suspicious when I received emails saying the items were delivered, but I had never received them. I ordered a vcr about 2 months ago. The seller from ebay had delivery confirmation from the post office. The item was delivered according to the post office. I finally reported the items stolen to my local police department. The police said unless I caught someone stealing there wasn't anything that could be done. I probably will not renew my lease next year. I started home delivery for my local newspaper just for Sundays. I received an email from the newspaper asking if I was receiving the papers. I wrote them back and told them I hadn't received a one. According to the paper, several residents in my building have not been receiving their papers lately.

They believe someone is stealing them.. The papers have been delivered according to the paper delivery man. I probably will not renew my lease next year because of all the thefts. Anything that I have coming in parcel post has to be picked up at the post office.

Is there anything I can do to stop a thief? Thanks for any answers.

Answer 1

video camera would give evidence so cops could arrest him and get the stuff back.

Answer 2

Buy  cam for the mail slots to watch for the culprit. to show to police.

Post a hold on your mail at the post office and have all parcels picked up at the  post office  or you can pay for a P.O Box at the local box stores around cause people will steal anything  especially kids. They sometimes dont think its stealing to pick up a box not theirs its hard to put down. Whats in the box got my attention many a time. oh its heavy lets look.Oh its a dvd I can use a dvd.cheers.

Answer 3

I can't advise you on the papers, but I can advise you on packages.

When you order anything from e-bay (or anywhere else), be sure the seller/shipper sends it SIGNATURE REQUIRED/CHECK ID.

Something sent through the post office can be held there until you can pick it up.

Both UPS and Fed Ex both have pick up centers and as soon as the tracking number is issued, you can call them and arrange to pick the items up in their centers.

You also need to file a complaint with the post master and I would also consider getting a PO Box.

You also need to file a complaint with the apartment complex.

KEEP filing police reports...I know it's frustrating when they say they won't do anything, but they do keep track when they start increasing in an area and it helps them start to see "patterns".

Answer 4

Contact UPS, FedEx, and your postal delivery driver and let them all know not to leave anything or have anyone else sign for your parcels.  You also should upon purchasing an item that will be shipped give specific instructions on delivery of items.  Another safe-guard would be to get a mailbox at your neighborhood Mail Boxes, Etc. or Post Office.  Sorry to hear of your problem hope this will hep you resolve it.

Answer 5

I have an advice for you. Please use a scanner to check thieves and intruders and a digital camera to take photos.

That is my tip. Please follow if you want.

Thanks.

Answer 6

You have discovered the thief.   It would be fun to arrange a fake delivery and videotape the box being grabbed.  You could place the box and then hide with the camera.  if you don't have a camera, borrow one. You only need the $5 tape.  Once you catch them, the police will prosecute.

You can not have any more purchases or newspapers delivered.