Police in Fairfield have arrested two men accused of orchestrating a package theft scheme involving fraudulent orders of energy-efficient thermostats through a rebate program.
Authorities say the case highlights a growing trend of delivery scams targeting residential neighborhoods.
Investigation Begins After Package Theft Complaints
The investigation started on March 4, when police received reports of suspicious individuals removing packages from homes in the areas of James Street and Pratt Street.
Residents alerted authorities after noticing deliveries disappearing shortly after being dropped off.
Suspects Identified and Arrested
Police later located a suspect vehicle and identified the occupants as:
- Teon Thomas, 24, of Rochester
- Dawud Gause-Seignious, 23, of Wyandanch
Both men were taken into custody following the investigation.
How the Thermostat Rebate Scam Worked
According to investigators, the suspects used fake identities to place orders for energy-efficient thermostats through a rebate program.
They then:
- Had the packages delivered to unsuspecting Fairfield addresses
- Retrieved the deliveries without homeowners’ knowledge or permission
Police recovered seven packages containing 14 Google Nest Thermostat devices, with a total estimated value of about $3,900.
Charges Filed Against the Suspects
Authorities charged Thomas with:
- Third-degree larceny
- Conspiracy to commit larceny
- Criminal impersonation
- Third-degree criminal trespass
Gause-Seignious faces:
- Third-degree larceny
- Conspiracy to commit larceny
Both suspects were released on a promise to appear in court, according to police.
Police Issue Warning to Residents
Officials are urging residents to remain cautious about unexpected deliveries.
Police recommend:
- Do not keep packages you did not order
- Mark them “return to sender”
- Contact the delivery service to retrieve the item
Authorities say quick reporting can help prevent similar theft schemes in the future.
Growing Concern Over Package Theft Scams
This case underscores a broader rise in package theft and rebate-related fraud, especially involving high-value electronics and smart home devices.
Law enforcement continues to monitor such schemes and encourages the public to report any suspicious activity.