A number of package theft incidents have taken place lately in the Maspeth-Middle Village area. The thieves that were captured on surveillance video were observed passing by houses and then doubling back to take packages that were left on doorsteps by UPS and USPS. These occurrences generally have happened in broad daylight when homeowners were at work or out of the house. First of all, it is a good idea to have a functioning security camera pointed at your front door at all times. When you are expecting a delivery, you may want to alert the shipper to request a signature. This way the package will not be left unattended. Another option is to keep a large planter or box on your steps where the package can be hidden by the delivery person. Or you could post instructions to leave packages in an out of sight location or ask that they be delivered to a neighbor. Package theft is a crime of opportunity, so let's deny them the opportunity. Out of sight, out of mind.