Alleged porch pirates pinched as packages’ proactive purchasers partner with police

Neighbors working together helped crack the case of package-stealing porch pirates in Maywood.

CBS New York reports neighbors finally spotted the people who were allegedly stealing packages from their front porches along Thomas Avenue in broad daylight. Residents had already been on the lookout, and trying to catch the thieves on camera.

“When I saw them stop up at the corner, and two guys got out at the same time and ran up to the two porches at the same time, I started screaming at them,” Gina Keilly told CBS New York.

Another neighbor jumped into his truck, and with police on his cell phone, followed the SUV the alleged thieves were driving in as they threw stolen packages, clothes and other items out the window as they headed toward Route 17, according to NorthJersey.com.  Police were able to arrest three people from Paterson and Fair Lawn when they tried to drive over railroad tracks, according to the NorthJersey.com report. A fourth suspect got away, it said.

Maywood police on Thursday wrote on their Facebook page that the community spirit that helped with the arrests is nothing new:

Because of the arrest of several parties on Tuesday, various New York news crews were all around Maywood interviewing police officers and residents. Each one made a comment that they couldn't believe what an outstanding town Maywood is and how the residents know and watch out for each other. They were amazed at what a community we have

Then we turned to the town residents to help someone in need because of a fire that displaced them from their home. By simple emails and social media the amount of gift cards that came in within hours last night was astounding.

We feel proud to serve the residents of Maywood and will always be there through good times and bad.

This is nothing new, Maywood residents have always been here for each other but it's good to see when it comes together.

Please never stop the Maywood spirit!