Man charged with theft and possession of ammunition after parcels stolen in Smethwick
A man has been charged after a number of parcels were stolen in Smethwick.
Elton Edwards, aged 48 and from Tipton, has been charged with possession of ammunition and three counts of theft.
He was remanded in custody to appear at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court today (Monday).
It comes after parcels were stolen from addresses in Smethwick in November. A shotgun cartridge was also found during an associated search.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said: "We’ve seen a rise in parcel thefts in Smethwick recently and with Christmas just around the corner, we don’t want the festivities ruined by a missing delivery.
"So, here are some simple, practical steps you can take to make sure your parcels end up in your hands and not someone else’s.
"Plan ahead of deliveries; nominate a safe spot; select a parcel shop for collection; track your parcels; don’t share too much online; layer up your security.
"To report parcel theft, you should call 101 for non-emergencies or report it online. In an emergency, such as a crime in progress, dial 999 immediately."
For more crime prevention advice and safety tips for preventing stolen deliveries, visit the West Midlands Police website.
