Christmas Night ‘Grinch’ Caught on Camera in Appleton, Police Say
While many families in Appleton, Wisconsin, were settling in after Christmas celebrations, police say a suspected thief was making the rounds in a residential neighborhood.
The Appleton Police Department shared surveillance footage this week in hopes of identifying an individual believed to be connected to a series of vehicle thefts that occurred in the early morning hours of Christmas Day, Dec. 25. The incidents were reported in the 1300 block of East Fremont Street.
In a post shared on social media, police noted that “Santa wasn’t the only one making the rounds on Christmas night,” adding that the suspect appeared to be targeting vehicles while most residents were asleep. The department also made a lighthearted reference to the fictional “Wet Bandits” from Home Alone, calling the suspect a real-life Grinch during what should have been a peaceful holiday night.
Authorities are asking residents in the area to review any security camera footage or images from the overnight hours and to come forward if they notice anything suspicious. Even small details, police say, could help move the investigation forward.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Appleton Police Department at 920-832-5500, send a direct message to the department’s social media page, or submit an anonymous tip through the department’s website or by emailing [email protected]. Officials ask that anyone reaching out reference case number A25064546.
Police emphasized that all individuals depicted are considered innocent unless charged and proven guilty.
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