Collectible Toys Stolen in Package Theft

Highly collectible toys were among the items reported stolen in a package theft at a West Portsmouth home. Scioto County sheriff’s deputies took information for a report after the victim said a package containing several collectible items was taken. Reported missing were a Baby Three blind box, a case of Oreo Squishys, and another blind box. The total value was estimated at approximately $280. These types of items can be worth far more than people might expect. Blind boxes are mystery collectibles, meaning buyers do not know exactly which figure or item they are getting until the package is opened. That surprise factor helps drive demand, especially when certain characters, styles, or limited-edition versions are harder to find. Squishy collectibles can also become valuable when they are part of a themed set, sold in limited quantities, or popular with online collectors. That makes them a tempting target for package thieves, especially when boxes are left sitting outside a home. Second Package Call Turns Out to Be UPS Issue Portsmouth police also handled a separate report involving a missing package on 12th Street. The caller said UPS tracking showed their package had been delivered to another address, and that someone at that home slammed the door when they went to ask about it. When officers investigated, the tracking information showed the package had been delivered at 10:56 a.m. and marked as “met customer.” However, police said it appeared UPS had misdelivered the package. Officers spoke with the neighbor, who said she had received a UPS package, but her package had a different tracking number and was addressed to her. Police advised the original caller to file a claim with UPS. How to Protect Packages Package theft and delivery mistakes are both common problems, especially when valuable or collectible items are involved. There are a few ways to reduce the risk: Use delivery alerts so you know when a package is on the way and when it has been dropped off. Request signature delivery for expensive or hard-to-replace items. Have packages sent to a workplace, trusted neighbor, UPS Access Point, Amazon Locker, or other secure pickup location when possible. Install a doorbell camera or security camera aimed at the delivery area. Add delivery instructions asking drivers to place packages out of plain view, such as behind a column, inside a porch box, or near a side door. Keep tracking numbers and order receipts until the package is safely in your hands. If a package is missing, check the tracking details carefully, contact the delivery company, and file a claim as soon as possible. And if the package contains collectibles, do not assume the value is “just toys.” Limited-run figures, mystery boxes, and popular squishy sets can add up quickly.

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