2023 WCSO Annual Report - Flipbook - Page 14
DETECTIVE ALTIERE
RECEIVES
RECOGNITION FOR
SUCCESSFUL BAIT
PACKAGE PROGRAM
Property Crimes Detective Patrick Altiere was honored in 2023 with
the Distinguished Service Award for his outstanding work on the
bait car program and his success in combating package theft.
Innovative Approach
2023 Holiday Season Bait Package Mission
In 2016, Detective Altiere recognized the
potential of using tracking technology to
combat package theft. He collaborated with
the United States Postal Inspection Service to
classify the “bait” packages as mail, elevating
the offense to a felony. Detective Altiere aimed
to deter thieves and secure arrests by modifying
and strategically placing these packages.
In December 2023, during the holiday shopping
season, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office
launched a targeted operation to catch package
thieves. Teams from the Property Crimes Unit
and Patrol Division collaborated with the United
States Postal Inspection Service to deploy decoy
packages equipped with electronic tracking
devices. Within 24 hours, two activations were
recorded, leading to the arrest of one suspect.
Publicizing the Program and National Recognition
Detective Altiere worked with local news
organizations to publicize the bait package
program to maximize its impact. This initiative
led to a dramatic decline in package thefts
throughout Washington County. The program’s
success gained national recognition when
Detective Altiere was interviewed by Good
Morning America and featured on the show.
Results and Ongoing Efforts
Detective Altiere’s dedication to the bait
package program has spanned almost one-third
of his 19-year career. The program has helped
prevent package thefts, fostered community
partnerships, and facilitated numerous arrests.
Detective Altiere continues to enhance the
program by training more deputies on the
tracking software, ensuring its sustained
effectiveness.
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Continuous Efforts and Impact
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office remains
committed to proactively addressing package
thefts in the community. Since the inception
of the bait package program, numerous decoy
packages have been strategically placed
throughout the county, deterring potential
thieves, and contributing to a safer community.
Detective Patrick Altiere’s innovative approach
to combating package theft has earned him
recognition and praise. Detective Altiere and
his team have made significant strides in
reducing package thefts in Washington County
through the successful bait package program
and collaborative efforts with the United States
Postal Inspection Service. As the program
continues to evolve and expand, the community
can feel safer, thanks to the dedication of
Detective Altiere and the Sheriff’s Office.
