News Washougal police officers arrested two people for stealing packages in the 700 block of “G” Street two days before Christmas.
Officers responded to a call of a suspicious vehicle following a UPS truck as it delivered packages. The vehicle, described as a 1990s light blue Ford Explorer with a temporary tag in the rear window, was being driven by a female with a male passenger.
The vehicle was located and stopped in the 700 block of G Street. No one witnessed the couple taking packages. However, during the investigation, stolen property was recovered in the vehicle. Its rightful owner was contacted and the Christmas gifts returned.
Danielle Rose Smith-Swanson, 29, of Portland, and James Edward Martin, 70, of Battle Ground, are charged with third-degree theft and possession of stolen property. Martin faces an additional charge of weapon possession, while Smith-Swanson faces charges of possession of a controlled substance and driving while suspended.
Both were booked into the Clark County Jail.
It was the second time in a week Washougal Police had made an arrest related to the theft of delivered packages. They advise anyone expecting packages to have them delivered to their work or a neighbor who is home.
