Nineteen-year-old Brandon Ancell was recently photographed stealing a holiday package dropped off by UPS from the homeowner’s doorstep.

In the photograph, released by the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, Ancell is seen running away from the house with a large Macy’s package in his hands and a smile on his face.

19-year-old Brandon Ancell with a stolen Macy's package

Reports confirm that the photograph was taken at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday morning by another homeowner that spotted Ancell and his 18-year-old partner, Brandon Chait, through his window.

The Smoking Gun reports that the neighbor watched Ancell commit the same act at two different houses. Shortly after the neighbor called 911, the 2010 Nissan Altima being driven by the suspect was quickly found by local police.

Although Brandon Ancell was caught on camera stealing one package, it was reported that the cops found contents for at least 26 packages in the car. As a matter of fact, a second resident called 911 to report “theft from a porch on an adjacent street” while the police officers were en route to that particular neighborhood.

Cops reportedly recovered such as items as computer speakers, clothing, cosmetics, and a 30-pound bag of dog food during their thorough search of the vehicle.

The Daily Mail reports that the two holiday package thieves trailed a UPS van and would pick up the driver’s deliveries as they were left behind at residences.

Lt. John Michalke from the sheriff’s office used this criminal “shopping” spree to warn local residents about precautionary steps that need to be taken to minimize the chances of this happening to them in the future.

“If you are expected to receive packages through the mail, use tracking software that’s available. If you’re expecting packages, be aware, be on the lookout for your neighbors.”

Another popular delivery services company, FedEx, offers several similar tips for people sending or receiving holiday packages. For instance, alternate destinations should be considered — especially if the scheduled delivery window conflicts with a work or school schedule. In addition, signatures should be requested in order to prevent doorstep drop-offs from occurring at all.

Brandon Ancell and Brandon Chait were both arrested on Thursday by local police. They have been charged with theft as well as conspiracy to commit theft. Ancell also received a possession charge for marijuana. After their arraignment on Friday, both were released on personal recognizance bonds of $5,000.

[Image Credit: Click on Detroit & Daily Mail]