Irvine police arrest man suspected of stealing packages

Irvine police spent hours last weekend sorting through more than 100 packages found in a suspected thief’s home and car, police said.

Tien Kim Vu, 27 of Santa Ana was arrested Oct. 27, according to a news release from Irvine police.

Police assert that Vu burglarized more than 20 North Irvine area homes.

On Oct. 27, an officer assigned to the area discovered a vehicle matching the description of the suspect’s car. It had stolen plates and was filled with packages believed to be stolen from homes in the area, according to police.

About 150 suspected stolen items were found in Vu’s car and at his home, police said.

Residents in the area have reported package thefts since 2010, but police have seen an increase in the reports in the last three months.

Some of the found packages included personal items including a photo album that is about 40 years old and a computer server valued at $1,000.

— Lauren Williams

Twitter: @lawilliams30