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Man's Arrest Prompts Postal Service To Offer Tips For People Expecting Holiday Packages

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- The Postal Service is offering some advice and tips to people expecting deliveries this holiday season after police charged a man with stealing packages in Squirrel Hill.

Wednesday was the busiest day of the year for holiday package deliveries, according to the Postal Service. Maybe that's why someone went from building to building in Squirrel Hill going in and out of lobbies on Hobart Street and several others looking for packages.

Police have identified the suspect as 48-year-old Steven Green of Wilkinsburg.

"I am angry and disappointed that somebody would steal Christmas presents," said Megan Evans of Squirrel Hill.

"That's kind of sad, and maybe speaks to the hard time that people are going through with the economy," added Anya Wade, also of Squirrel Hill.

Police say they spotted Green opening a package and throwing away the wrapping at the intersection of Hobart Street and Wrightman Street and followed him.

He ran but was picked up a few blocks away on Nicholson Street where officers found more holiday packages inside a backpack.

"I hope he spends Christmas in jail," said Steve Wardark, a resident of Squirrel Hill.

So, what do you do if you're expecting a package with presents inside?

"If you're going to be away at work, we always recommend that you make arrangements with a friend of a neighbor to pick up your mail," said Tad Kelly, of the U.S. Postal Service. "We always recommend picking up your mail as soon as it's delivered."

Postal officials say insurance is also another layer of protection. And the sender can ask for a signature when the package is delivered that way the package isn't just left at door or in a common lobby.

As for Green, he's been charged with theft, receiving stolen property and escape.

The packages he took were returned to the intended recipients.

RELATED LINKS:
Man Charged With Stealing Christmas Packages (12/19/12)
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