Suffolk County police are trying to track down a woman who, they say, walked into the FedEx Ship Center on Express Drive South in Melville with a phony authorization form and walked out with a pricey package. Inside, according to investigators, was a watch worth $4,650. The pickup was reported on Oct. 23.
How police say the theft happened
According to News 12 New York, Suffolk police say the woman handed over a counterfeit authorization document and successfully claimed a parcel that was not hers. Detectives say the investigation is still active and are urging anyone who recognizes the woman to step up and contact them.
Long Island package-theft trend
The Melville case lands in the middle of what prosecutors describe as a broader Long Island problem involving high-end deliveries. Good Morning America reports that prosecutors recently indicted 14 people they say were part of a ring accused of stealing hundreds of phones and using inside tracking information to intercept FedEx shipments across Suffolk County.
How to protect your deliveries
Guidance from FedEx suggests customers turn on Delivery Manager tools and two-step verification, stay alert for phishing attempts, and remember the company will not ask for payment or personal details just to release a package. FedEx also recommends redirecting expensive items to secure company locations or placing delivery holds for an extra layer of protection.
Police ask public for tips
Officials say anyone with information about the Melville pickup should contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS or use the department’s anonymous tip tools. As noted by the Suffolk County Police Department, tips can also be submitted through the P3 Tips app or website.
