Washington County, MN – Authorities in Washington County arrested four individuals this week following a string of package thefts in a Lake Elmo neighborhood, officials announced Monday.
According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, deputies worked alongside Oakdale Police to track down suspects allegedly involved in multiple mail and package thefts. All four men are charged with aiding and abetting mail theft.
The arrests come amid what law enforcement describes as a growing national problem. The sheriff’s office cited data estimating that more than 58 million packages were stolen across the U.S. in 2024, resulting in nearly $16 billion in reported losses.
Officials are reminding residents to stay alert and take extra precautions during the holiday delivery rush — including using secure drop-off points, installing cameras, or requiring delivery signatures when possible.
Residents in Lake Elmo and surrounding communities are encouraged to report suspicious activity immediately to local authorities.
“Don’t let this happen to you,” the sheriff’s post warned, urging vigilance as package thefts peak during December.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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