‘Tis the time of year when some people try to steal the holiday cheer, and in Encinitas, door cameras from multiple homes show what appears to be a man dressed as a FedEx delivery driver stealing packages from porches.
“Brazen is what we call it,” said Wendy Van Vechten, whose package was stolen on Dec. 15.
Her doorbell camera shows a man arriving at her house with a small package in hand, then leaving with the package he came with. Van Vechten said it was a holiday gift she ordered for her home.
“I just feel sad,” Van Vechten sighed, “that people have to go out and do things like this or choose to do things like this.”
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department confirms it is investigating Van Vechten’s case, and no other similar cases have been reported.
But on nearby Via Andalusia, where the Christmas spirit shines with homes covered in decorations, Jennifer Kuckenbaker said, “I know about 1, 2, 3, 4 houses. He came to four front doors, three of which he took something.”
The video shows what appears to be the same alleged delivery man arriving on Kuckenbaker’s porch, just after the Christmas present was delivered. But he apparently did not see the gift that was hidden from view.
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“We’re lucky he’s only stepped this far,” Kuckenbaker said. “But that doesn’t really make it that much better.”
Neighbors believe the suspected thief follows delivery trucks in a dark-colored minivan. Once the package is delivered, victims say he is there to collect it within minutes.
“The package arrived at 12:41, and according to our camera, it arrived at 12:45,” Van Vechten said.
A picture of the alleged delivery man is now part of Kuckenbaker’s outdoor holiday display, a small gift to help keep neighbors in the know this Christmas.
“We hope the neighborhood knows and we’re trying to be a community and tell people what’s going on and keep our front porch,” Kuckenbaker said.
NBC 7 contacted both the sheriff’s department and FedEx. Neither could confirm whether the man in the picture is a FedEx employee.
FedEx released a statement that reads:
“These reports are very concerning and we will readily cooperate with local authorities in their investigation. Customers who suspect that a package has been stolen should contact the police.
Anyone making a delivery on behalf of FedEx is expected to wear a photo identification badge. In addition, we encourage drivers and service providers to be aware of their surroundings and report any unusual activity.
FedEx Express and FedEx Ground residential customers can now see pictorial proof of delivery for packages that do not require a signature. In addition, FedEx Delivery Manager gives users the added ability to provide specific delivery instructions for drivers and take advantage of options to hold or reroute packages to a retail location such as a FedEx office.
We also support federal legislation known as the Pirates on the Porch Act that would establish a consistent set of penalties for package theft across the country.”
When asked if a man driving an unmarked car should have a red flag, FedEx responded:
“The vast majority of deliveries are made by uniformed drivers using a FedEx-branded vehicle. Although the use of leased or alternate vehicles is usually temporary, such vehicles can be used to accommodate increased package volume during the holiday season. Anyone making a delivery on behalf of FedEx to wear a photo ID badge.”
Why did Encinitas ban helium balloons?
ENCINITAS, Calif. — Helium-filled balloons are a single-use plastic that’s also a major ocean polluter. To reduce this waste, the City of Encinitas enacted a ban on the sale of lighter-than-air balloons.
Is helium banned in California? The sale and distribution of helium-filled foil balloons is prohibited unless the balloon is attached to an appropriate weight, with a warning and visible identification of the manufacturer. Balloon vendors must always tie all balloons to weights in case they escape and float away.
Why should helium balloons be banned?
The city stressed that the balloons could break down into microplastics found in the oceans, drinking water, food and even in the air. City leaders said balloons filled with any gas lighter than air, such as helium, pose a safety threat to animals, people and the environment.
Do helium balloons hurt the environment?
The answer is no. When released into the atmosphere, helium, the second most abundant element in the universe, has no harmful effect on the environment and, in fact, escapes into space.
Why shouldn’t we use helium in balloons?
And he’s not alone – other scientists have warned that helium is becoming so scarce that research harnessing its cooling power may have to be limited or halted. Although it is the second most abundant element in the universe, helium cannot be manufactured, and once released into the atmosphere it is lost forever.
Why is helium banned?
â Helium-filled balloons, called the zero-waste nightmare, are single-use plastics that are also major ocean polluters. To reduce this waste, the City of Encinitas enacted a ban on the sale of lighter-than-air balloons. The San Diego chapter of the Surfrider Foundation was also instrumental in the effort.
Why should we ban balloons?
Balloons pose a significant risk to the environment, animals and marine life (including seabirds and turtles) that ingest balloon debris mistaking it for food, or that can become entangled in balloon strings.
Why is helium illegal in California?
In 1990, the California Legislature passed SB 1990, enacting the Balloon Act to regulate the sale and use of foil balloons filled with helium. The law was passed in an effort to reduce blackouts due to metallized Mylar or foil balloons.
Are helium balloons illegal?
Yes, we know that balloon releases are legal under current legislation and can only advise on the risks and dangers involved. We have asked the government to ban the release of sky lanterns, foil balloons and all balloons with ribbons or plastic attached, and we will continue to advocate for this regulation.
Is it illegal to let balloons go in California?
(d) No person or group shall release in the open air balloons made of electrically conductive material and filled with a lighter-than-air gas as part of a public or civic event, promotional activity, or product advertisement.
Why you shouldn’t let helium balloons go?
All released balloons, including those falsely marketed as “biodegradable latex,” return to Earth as unsightly waste. They kill countless animals and cause dangerous blackouts. Balloons are also a waste of helium, a limited resource. Balloons can travel thousands of miles and pollute the most remote and untouched places.
Is it illegal to release balloons in California?
(d) No person or group shall release in the open air balloons made of electrically conductive material and filled with a lighter-than-air gas as part of a public or civic event, promotional activity, or product advertisement.
Can you do a balloon release anywhere?
Mass balloon releases are illegal in several states, cities and countries. The release of balloons and sky lanterns everywhere should be illegal, because at the end of the day, it’s just littering. US states with laws: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Is it illegal to release balloons in USA?
A statement warning consumers of the danger of touching the balloon with electrical outlets must be placed on the balloon. Foil balloons cannot be released as part of a public or civic event, promotional activity or product advertising.
Is it OK to release balloons in the air?
All released balloons, including those falsely marketed as “biodegradable latex,” return to Earth as unsightly waste. They kill countless animals and cause dangerous blackouts. Balloons are also a waste of helium, a limited resource. Balloons can travel thousands of miles and pollute the most remote and untouched places.
Can latex balloons be released in California?
According to this law, any balloon made of material that is electrically conductive may not be filled with a lighter-than-air gas and released. The sale or distribution of balloons filled with gas that is lighter than air is also prohibited.
How far is Encinitas from the ocean?
Encinitas, about 25 miles up the coast from San Diego, is sandwiched between two lagoons: San Elijo Lagoon to the south and Batiquitos Lagoon to the north.
Is Encinitas CA a good place to live? Encinitas ranks well on Niche.com. Ranked #4 Best Suburbs for Young Professionals in San Diego County, #4 Best Suburbs to Live in San Diego County, and #4 Best Suburbs to Raise a Family in San Diego County.
Is Encinitas a good neighborhood?
Yes, Encinitas is a very safe place to live. According to statistics, the crime rate in Encinitas is about 45% lower than the national average. The overall crime rate is about 13 per 1,000 inhabitants.
Is Encinitas expensive to live?
Encinitas, California’s cost of living is 71% higher than the national average. The cost of living in any area can vary depending on factors such as your career, the average salary, and the real estate market in that area.
Is Encinitas California a rich area?
The city of Encinitas is definitely an affluent area, so the cost of living in Encinitas is relatively high. There are over 23,000 households in Encinitas, with a median property value of $820,400.
What is Encinitas California known for?
Encinitas is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in California and is known for its excellent surfing conditions. Every year, surfers from all over flock to Encinitas to compete in local surfing tournaments.
Why is Encinitas famous?
Encinitas is alternately known as the “Flower Capital of the World,” due to its extensive collection of unique nurseries and gardens, the most extensive of which is the San Diego Botanical Garden and the world’s leading grower of the Christmas flower, the poinsettia.
Is Encinitas California a rich area?
The city of Encinitas is definitely an affluent area, so the cost of living in Encinitas is relatively high. There are over 23,000 households in Encinitas, with a median property value of $820,400.
Is Encinitas worth visiting?
Yes, Encinitas is definitely worth a visit. This chilled out surfer town is a quieter alternative to San Diego, but still accessible if you want to explore the big city. It feels more like a local place and is ideal if you want to surf or enjoy the many beaches and gardens.
Why is Encinitas called Encinitas?
Encinitas is named after Encina Canada, Spanish for hill of live oaks.
Is Encinitas expensive?
Encinitas, California’s cost of living is 71% higher than the national average. The cost of living in any area can vary depending on factors such as your career, the average salary, and the real estate market in that area.
Is Encinitas expensive to live?
Encinitas, California’s cost of living is 71% higher than the national average. The cost of living in any area can vary depending on factors such as your career, the average salary, and the real estate market in that area.
How much does it cost to live in Encinitas?
| Cost of living | One person | 4-member family |
|---|---|---|
| �� Total with rent | 3096 dollars | $4552 |
| ��ï¸ No rent | 775 dollars | $2512 |
| �� Rent and utilities | $2321 | 2040 dollars |
Can I afford to live in Encinitas?
How do prices in Encinitas compare to other cities in the US? Encinitas is ranked 14 out of 273 cities across the US in terms of cost of living. The cost of living in Encinitas is 140.4% of the national average.
Why is Encinitas so expensive?
The biggest factor affecting the cost of living in Encinitas is housing, which is nearly five times the national average. The median home price in Encinitas is $1,200,000 or $640 per square foot. The market is also very competitive, with homes receiving several offers and selling for roughly around list price.
Why is Encinitas famous?
Encinitas is alternately known as the "Flower Capital of the World," for its extensive collection of unique nurseries and gardens, the most extensive of which is the San Diego Botanical Garden and the world’s leading grower of the Poinsettia Christmas flower.
Why is Encinitas called Encinitas? Encinitas is named after Encina Canada, Spanish for hill of live oaks.
Is Encinitas expensive?
Encinitas, California’s cost of living is 71% higher than the national average. The cost of living in any area can vary depending on factors such as your career, the average salary, and the real estate market in that area.
Can I afford to live in Encinitas?
How do prices in Encinitas compare to other cities in the US? Encinitas is ranked 14 out of 273 cities across the US in terms of cost of living. The cost of living in Encinitas is 140.4% of the national average.
How expensive is to live in Encinitas?
| Cost of living | One person | 4-member family |
|---|---|---|
| �� Total with rent | 3096 dollars | $4552 |
| ��ï¸ No rent | 775 dollars | $2512 |
| �� Rent and utilities | $2321 | 2040 dollars |
| ��ï¸ Food | $555 | 1447 dollars |
Why is Encinitas expensive?
The biggest factor affecting the cost of living in Encinitas is housing, which is nearly five times the national average. The median home price in Encinitas is $1,200,000 or $640 per square foot. The market is also very competitive, with homes receiving several offers and selling for roughly around list price.
Is Encinitas California a rich area?
The city of Encinitas is definitely an affluent area, so the cost of living in Encinitas is relatively high. There are over 23,000 households in Encinitas, with a median property value of $820,400.
Is Encinitas worth visiting?
Yes, Encinitas is definitely worth a visit. This chilled out surfer town is a quieter alternative to San Diego, but still accessible if you want to explore the big city. It feels more like a local place and is ideal if you want to surf or enjoy the many beaches and gardens.
How do I spend a day in Encinitas?
Best things to do in Encinitas
- Have breakfast at Pannikin. …
- Go Stand Up Paddleboarding. …
- Check out the surfing Madonna. …
- Visit the San Diego Botanical Garden. …
- Take a surfing lesson. …
- Eat Fish Tacos. …
- Take a stroll through the meditation gardens. …
- Shop 101.
What is Encinitas CA known for?
Encinitas is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in California and is known for its excellent surfing conditions. Every year, surfers from all over flock to Encinitas to compete in local surfing tournaments.
Does Encinitas have a downtown area?
The city center has a rich history and character. A unique combination of old town beach atmosphere, healthy outdoor lifestyle and beautiful, spacious beaches.
Why go to Encinitas?
Encinitas is best known for its perfect weather, beautiful beaches, and delicious Mexican food.
Is Encinitas California a rich area?
The city of Encinitas is definitely an affluent area, so the cost of living in Encinitas is relatively high. There are over 23,000 households in Encinitas, with a median property value of $820,400.
What is the richest part of San Diego?
- 1) Carmel valley.
- 2) Del Mar Heights.
- 3) La Jolla.
- 5) Break point.
- 6) Rancho Penasquitos.
- 7) Rancho Santa Fe.
Is Encinitas walkable?
The beach is located on the southern edge of Encinitas’ walking core. This area, known as Encinitas 101, is home to seafood shacks and other beach-themed restaurants, including Encinitas Fish Shop, Union Kitchen & Tap and Potato Shack Cafe.
Is San Diego pedestrian-friendly? But the city of about 1.5 million also boasts some of the most walkable neighborhoods in Southern California, which is exciting news for those looking for an alternative to driving in San Diego. Walkability is a way of life.
Is Del Mar walkable?
Residents and visitors alike can explore Del Mar Village without the need for a car. A collection of unique, independent shops and services, upscale and casual restaurants and boutique hotels are accessible on foot through the heart of the village.
Does Del Mar have a boardwalk?
Del Mar City Beach Walk along the shore and head to the Frontier Nature Preserve, where you can hike and bird watch, or enjoy the games and shops along the beach boardwalk.
How do you spend a day in Del Mar?
Top attractions in Del Mar
- Del Mar City Beach. 474. Beaches.
- Del Mar Speedway. 566. Horse tracks.
- Del Mar Dog Beach. 291. Beaches.
- Free Flight. Nature and wildlife areas.
- Seagrove Park. 131. Parks.
- Powerhouse Park. 107. Parks.
- Del Mar Plaza. Points of interest and landmarks.
- Del Mar Public Library. Libraries.
Does Del Mar have a downtown?
Downtown Del Mar Across the street from Sea-Gove Park is a historic downtown del mar village dating back to the 1880s. Nestled in the middle of its 60 shops and 25 restaurants is the landmark Del Mar Library.
Is Del Mar worth visiting?
Often referred to as “the place where the surf meets the turf,” Del Mar is known for its beautiful beaches, world-famous racetrack, wonderful weather and luxurious lifestyle. It’s a place where you can spend the day on the beach doing nothing, or you can fill your time with non-stop action!
Why is Encinitas famous?
Encinitas is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in California and is known for its excellent surfing conditions. Every year, surfers from all over flock to Encinitas to compete in local surfing tournaments.
Is Encinitas California a rich area?
The city of Encinitas is definitely an affluent area, so the cost of living in Encinitas is relatively high. There are over 23,000 households in Encinitas, with a median property value of $820,400.
Is Encinitas worth visiting?
Yes, Encinitas is definitely worth a visit. This chilled out surfer town is a quieter alternative to San Diego, but still accessible if you want to explore the big city. It feels more like a local place and is ideal if you want to surf or enjoy the many beaches and gardens.
Is Encinitas expensive?
Encinitas, California’s cost of living is 71% higher than the national average. The cost of living in any area can vary depending on factors such as your career, the average salary, and the real estate market in that area.
Does Encinitas have a downtown?
The city center has a rich history and character. A unique combination of old town beach atmosphere, healthy outdoor lifestyle and beautiful, spacious beaches.
Is Encinitas a small town?
Encinitas is a small beach town at the northern end of San Diego County in Southern California.
Is Encinitas walkable?
The beach is located on the southern edge of Encinitas’ walking core. This area, known as Encinitas 101, is home to seafood bars and other beachfront restaurants, including Encinitas Fish Shop, Union Kitchen & Tap, and Potato Shack Cafe.
How do I spend a day in Encinitas?
Best things to do in Encinitas
- Have breakfast at Pannikin. …
- Go Stand Up Paddleboarding. …
- Check out the surfing Madonna. …
- Visit the San Diego Botanical Garden. …
- Take a surfing lesson. …
- Eat Fish Tacos. …
- Take a stroll through the meditation gardens. …
- Shop 101.
Is Encinitas worth visiting?
Yes, Encinitas is definitely worth a visit. This chilled out surfer town is a quieter alternative to San Diego, but still accessible if you want to explore the big city. It feels more like a local place and is ideal if you want to surf or enjoy the many beaches and gardens.
