Police in California have launched an unusual appeal for information, asking the public to help identify a package thief who bears a striking resemblance to a member of the iconic pop group, the Backstreet Boys.
The Theft Set to a 90s Backstreet Beat
The Irvine Police Department took to social media on Wednesday, 19th November 2025, to share details of the crime, cleverly weaving lyrics from the band's greatest hits into their appeal. The suspect was captured on video following an Amazon delivery driver into a secured apartment mailroom on Spectrum before making off with parcels that did not belong to him.
In a post that has since gone viral, the police stated, "We're pretty sure this isn't AJ McLean from the @backstreetboys, but the resemblance had us doing a double take." The department was quick to confirm that the real AJ McLean, who attended Netflix's Tudum event in May 2025, is not suspected of any wrongdoing.
A Doppelganger Caught on Camera
The footage released by the authorities, set amusingly to the Backstreet Boys' hit song "Everybody," shows the suspect in clear detail. The man was wearing a maroon t-shirt, black joggers, and a distinctive black backwards cap. He is seen entering the apartment building closely behind the delivery driver, grabbing several packages, and calmly walking out with them.
Rife with musical references, the police appeal continued, "Instead of being 'larger than life,' this suspect followed an Amazon driver... Quit playin' games with our mail. Backstreet's back, but your packages shouldn't be going with him."
Social Media Debates the Suspect's Identity
The police's comparison to AJ McLean sparked a lively debate online, with many social media users disagreeing with the assessment. Several commentators suggested the suspect more closely resembled other 90s pop stars.
One Facebook user argued, "Eh, he looks more like Joey Fatone," referring to a member of the rival band *NSYNC. Another remarked, "He looks more like the guy from 98 degrees." A more critical user added, "If they think he looks like AJ I struggle to believe they can positively ID any criminal."
The police have urged anyone with information about the suspect's identity to come forward. It is not yet clear if any arrests have been made in the case. The Independent has reached out to the Irvine Police Department for further comment.
