Gainesville man arrested after ‘porch pirate’ incident

A Gainesville man is in custody after allegedly stealing two delivered packages valued at more than $600, according to authorities.

The Gainesville Police Department says Richard Whidby, 31, has been arrested and charged with felony theft by taking after investigators identified him as the suspect in a recent package theft case. The packages had been left outside a residence following delivery when they were reportedly stolen.

He remains in custody as the investigation continues.

Authorities are reminding residents to take precautions when expecting deliveries, such as scheduling drop-offs during times when someone is home or using secure package lockers when available.