‘Porch Pirate’ caught on camera in Baldwin; homeowner says package contained light switches
Chris Merlo pleaded not guilty at his Friday arraignment and hid his face as he left the courthouse.
More Stories
There was another ‘porch pirate’ incident Thursday in Nassau County.
Authorities say 36-year-old Frank Merlo, of Wantagh, stole a package from a Baldwin doorstep.
It happened just before noon on Eastern Parkway.
The theft was captured on camera and police arrested Merlo at the Baldwin train station a few hours later.
RELATED: Police search for porch pirates who stole packages from 6 Nassau homes in 11 days
RELATED: Guide: Tips to protect your deliveries from 'porch pirates'
Merlo pleaded not guilty at his Friday arraignment and hid his face as he left the courthouse.
The victim did not want to be interviewed on camera but told News 12 the stolen package contained light switches.
This theft follows other recent ones – at least two caught on camera – in the Massapequa area.
Authorities have tips for residents to ensure their packages are safe.
They say try to track your package so you can be home when it arrives.
If you have the option, choose “sign for delivery.”
If you’re not going to be home, leave a note asking the delivery service to leave the package with a trusted neighbor, or have it shipped to another location where someone will be.
You can also ask the delivery service to hold the package for customer pickup.
