William R. Merman-Smith (pictured) helped himself to other people’s luggage at the Greater Rochester International Airport and then demanded money for its return, according to State Police in New York.

One victim thought the airline had lost her bags until an email with personal details came demanding $700 for its return.

Merman-Smith, 25, allegedly told the woman via email not to contact police, but that deviously brilliant trick didn’t work — the woman did call the police, the computer’s IP address was tracked, and soon the cops had the case in the bag — all puns intended.

A total of three people are said to have had their luggage swiped and returned by police.

He was charged with second-degree grand larceny by extortion, third-degree grand larceny plus petit larceny.