FARGO, N.D. - Authorities have identified a suspect in a series of package thefts that have occurred in north Fargo neighborhoods during the holiday shopping season. The individual, Jackson Mulder, 21, from Fargo, is under investigation for multiple thefts that took place between November 19 and November 21, according to local police. These incidents have impacted residents in the Northport area and surrounding neighborhoods.
Mulder has several outstanding arrest warrants and is suspected of involvement in multiple stolen vehicle cases, as well as evading law enforcement and committing package thefts. His activities have raised concerns among local residents who are trying to protect their homes and belongings.
Neighbors report multiple thefts
Micah Harwood, who resides in north Fargo near the Northport neighborhood, shared her experiences with the community's growing issue of porch piracy. She mentioned that one of her neighbors had two Christmas presents stolen directly from their porch.
"It was really disheartening to see, especially during the holidays when everyone is already struggling," Harwood said. "It’s frustrating to see someone take advantage of another person in our community."
On Tuesday, another neighbor shared a video capturing a different thief in the area, highlighting the ongoing concern among residents.
Police investigation aided by evidence
Captain Travis Moser of the Fargo Police Department explained that investigators have strong evidence, including security camera footage, in cases involving thefts. He noted that details such as vehicle descriptions, pictures of suspects, and license plate information have been crucial in their efforts.
"We can start working on determining who the vehicle belongs to and who is driving it," Moser said. "This helps us narrow down our search."
The vehicle used in the thefts was confirmed as stolen but has since been recovered. However, Fargo police have not specified which parts of the city are currently being targeted.
Regional problem extends beyond Fargo
The issue of package theft is not limited to Fargo. Across the river in Moorhead, police report that this type of crime occurs year-round and affects the entire city. Mike Detloff, Investigations Lieutenant with Moorhead Police, stated that there is no specific area where these crimes are concentrated.
"It’s spread throughout the city and happens frequently," Detloff said. "We don’t have a particular area we can focus on."
Resident efforts fall short
Harwood typically helps her neighbors retrieve packages to prevent theft, but she was unable to assist in a recent incident. She explained that the mail was delivered just 30 minutes before the theft occurred, leaving her no time to intervene.
Both Moorhead and Fargo Police have indicated that criminal penalties depend on the value of the stolen items. They recommend that neighbors collect packages together or use locked mailboxes whenever possible.
Harwood mentioned that police informed her neighbor that prosecution would require testimony from multiple victims. She described the situation as challenging.
"Fargo PD said they could charge him with burglary of the items and tampering with people’s mail," Harwood said. "However, in order to do that, most of the people he stole from would have to go to court and testify against him."
Despite these challenges, police were able to recover one package and return it to Harwood’s neighbor. The package contained pajamas and was found half-opened.
"Fargo PD stopped by and returned one of the packages that was half-opened," Harwood said. "They had pajamas in them, and I guess they weren’t interested in those. It was great that they returned them to my neighbor."
Anyone with information about Mulder’s current whereabouts or activities is encouraged to contact the Fargo Police Department at 701.241.5777.
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