New Orleans Police are asking for the public’s assistance in locating Gilda Blanton, a 63-year-old woman wanted in connection with a package theft that occurred in Algiers last week. The incident represents part of a broader pattern of property crime that continues to challenge the city despite overall decreases in most criminal categories.
Details of the Incident
According to NOPD News, the theft occurred around 7:58 a.m. on June 24, 2025, when a package was stolen from the front porch of a residence on Camilla Trace in Algiers. Surveillance video captured the incident and led investigators to identify Blanton, a Black female born November 28, 1961, as the suspect responsible for the theft.
The case is being handled by Fourth District detectives, who encourage anyone with information about the theft or Blanton’s whereabouts to call 504-658-6040. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111.
Rising Package Theft Trends
This incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing package theft concerns both locally and nationally. WWL Louisiana reports that Louisiana ranks as the fourth most at-risk state for “porch pirates,” with more than 2,400 larceny thefts reported per 100,000 residents. National data from ValuePenguin indicates that 41% of Americans have been victims of package theft, representing an increase from 35% in 2022.
Package theft costs Americans an estimated $16 billion annually, according to SafeWise research. The problem has intensified as e-commerce continues to expand, with most thefts occurring during daytime hours between 1 PM and 4 PM when residents are typically at work or school.
Local Crime Context
While New Orleans has seen significant decreases in most crime categories, theft remains a persistent challenge. NOPD’s 2024 crime statistics show that theft increased by approximately 5-6% compared to 2023, even as the city achieved a 26% overall decrease in crime and a 35% reduction in homicides…