Gerrard Kaonga
Police ridiculed a suspected thief after officers and a brave bystander apprehended him.
Now that internet shopping is very much a staple of the modern age, thieves have adapted - in that they no longer have to break into your home to try and get away with your stuff.
Some now attempt to snatch and grab your Amazon boxes off the porch.
But occasionally a good Samaritan steps in and offers the police a hand.
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The Yonkers Police Department of New York took to Facebook on January 8 to praise the bystander for intervening, and the quick work from the officers at the scene.
Police stated that 27-year-old Eder Mateo had been filmed stealing multiple packages from a porch and went on the run after he was approached by officers.
They also shared video footage of the foot chase and the moment the would-be thief ended up eating pavement.
“Christmas may be over, but the spirit of the Grinch is still alive in some people,” Police said in the social media post.
“Eder Mateo decided that he was going to steal some packages from the porch of one of our residents. Unfortunately for him, our 2nd Precinct Officers were ready for him.
“Despite his camouflaged jacket, Officers were able to spot EDER MATEO pretty easily. When they tried to stop him, he led them on a brief foot pursuit around the area. He thought he was getting away, until he was stopped in his tracks by a Yonkers public works employee who saw him running from the Officers.
“This Good Samaritan got out of his car and knocked EDER MATEO to the ground, allowing the closely pursuing Officers to apprehend him. EDER MATEO was charged with Grand Larceny 4th and Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 4th (both Felonies), among other misdemeanors.
“At his arraignment, he was released on his own recognizance.”
“This video shows what happens when everyone works together seamlessly to stop crime. A resident sees a crime and quickly calls it in allowing Officers to get on the scene quickly, Officers flood the area to ensure the suspect can’t get away despite his attempted fleeing, finished off by a Good Samaritan who saw an opportunity to help our Officers capture a suspect and took that opportunity- right to him.”
The post ended with a confident message to future thieves, 'pick somewhere else' because it seems they are not messing around in Yonkers.