Bodycam shows K9 Groot tracks down porch pirates, then arrested by Kalamazoo police

On February 14, 2024, at approximately 2:45 a.m., a KDPS Sergeant was on patrol in the Winchell Neighborhood when he interrupted two individuals that were stealing mail and packages from multiple residences. When confronted, the suspects abandoned their vehicle and attempted to flee on foot with packages in hand.

Public Safety Officers converged on the area and KDPS K9 Handler Weston, along with K9 Groot, tracked the suspects. Along the track, US Mail and Amazon packages were found discarded, and the suspects were found hiding behind a residence in the 1500 Block of Edgeridge Cir.

Officers located US Mail and packages belonging to ten different residences in the Winchell and Westnedge Hill Neighborhoods. The 2800-2900 blk of Bronson Blvd and surrounding streets appeared to be targeted the most. KDPS has been able to return the stolen property to the rightful owners.

The two individuals, a 26-year-old female and 42-year-old male, have been lodged at the Kalamazoo County Jail on mail theft charges and violation of conditional bond