Police were called to Somerset Street around 12:40 p.m. Wednesday when a resident saw a man exit a white van in front of his house and grab two packages that had been delivered earlier.
Police said the homeowner confronted the man, who dropped the packages and went back to the van. The resident got the plate and police stopped it on I-84 with the help of Hartford officers.
Police found two men and a package that had been stolen from another address in West Hartford. Authorities said about $200 worth of property was recovered.
The van’s driver and passenger, Jonathan Mendez, 25, and Anthony Ortiz-Malave, 21, both of Hartford, were charged with larceny and attempted larceny. Police said the men were employed by a sub-contractor that makes deliveries for W. B. Mason. Police believe the men were stealing packages while making deliveries and are investigating whether the men may be involved in similar thefts in town.
Both were released and are scheduled for court on December 16.
Police reminded residents to remove packages as soon as possible after delivery to prevent the thefts.
