Watch CBS News

Somerville Police Looking To Track Down Christmas Package Theft Victims

SOMERVILLE (CBS) - Somerville authorities are accusing a man and a woman of swiping delivery packages off porches and front stoops throughout the city.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Kim Tunnicliffe reports.

Podcast

The stolen goods were found on Tuesday after police tracked down 27-year-old Manuel Sheehan and his girlfriend, 26-year-old Kristen Casey, with the help of a resident who allegedly witnessed the couple stealing.

Sheehan's family members said he's had a hard life and they are trying to help him get on the right track. He's been convicted of similar crimes 30 times, and is being treated for a drug addiction.

WBZ-TV's Sera Congi reports.

"I'm sorry for all the victims, that my brother has caused you all tragedy," said Sheehan's brother.

Police found packaged items when they pulled over Sheehan's car on Tuesday. Officers then discovered many more goods in their home likely from thefts over a long period of time.

"In this particular case, we got the early tip on this suspect vehicle, and we were able to stop it. And we saved Christmas for at least a dozen people," said Dep. Chief Upton.

Officers are now trying to return the packages, may of them Christmas gifts, to the rightful owners.

"Our goal, right here, is to try and get as many packages back before Christmas as possible. We're going to work diligently over the next couple of days to try and do that," said Dep. Chief Paul Upton of the Somerville Police Department.

Somerville
Manuel Sheehan, age 27, and Kristen Casey, age 26.

Dep. Chief Upton said this kind of crime happens every year, and generally goes unsolved. So, nabbing the thieves gives the officers a great feeling.

"You'd like to have a feel-good story at Christmas time. This is one of them," said Dep. Chief Upton.

Police said they have already contacted the people whose packages were stolen. They should be returned by Christmas. As for the other goods found at the home, tracking down those owners may take more time.

Casey, meanwhile, was released on personal recognizance. Cash bail was set for Sheehan at $5,000. He was already on probation for something out of Cambridge.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.