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Martinez Mom Angry After Package Thieves Swipe Little Girl's Gifts

MARTINEZ (CBS SF) -- The mother of a little girl in Martinez on Monday had a stern message for a couple of package thieving Grinches who made off with the child's Christmas presents.

At four-year-old Layla's home in Martinez, Christmas is all around. Outside, visitors are greeted by holiday cheer.

But there's another message too that is one intended for the thieves who made away with the little girl's Christmas gifts.

"I used the term 'porch pirates,' telling them to beware, think twice before stealing from this porch. You were caught on camera yesterday," said homeowner Jenniffer Wycoff.

The video from Wycoff's surveillance camera shows an Amazon truck pulling up outside before the driver unloads two boxes.

Then about 20 minutes, later a U.S. Postal Service truck delivers more packages.

About two minutes later, a dark sedan pulls up and a man and woman get out. They take four packages from the porch and drive off, all before the mail truck even leaves the block.

When her mother asked it made her feel, Layla simply said, "Sad."

Martinez police are investigating the crime.

The family said they aren't going to let the thieves ruin their Christmas.

"It is like 'The Grinch Who Stole Christmas,'" said Wycoff. "This won't steal our holiday joy."

They are just hoping someone recognizes the pair to keep this from happening again.

"I thought last night about how lucky we are that I could easily replace these gifts," explained Wycoff. "But I know there are people who are struggling to buy presents for their family and loves ones and it won't be as easy to replace them if they have things stolen."

Anyone who recognizes the two people seen in the video or the vehicle they are driving can report them to Martinez police at 925-372-3440.

 

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