For many, spending most of the year under quarantine during the coronavirus pandemic has meant avoiding virus-laden crowds at stores and relying more on package deliveries for purchases.
Unfortunately, even being home most of time doesn’t always deter the perennial holiday threat of “porch pirates” — thieves who steal packages from doorsteps. Here are five things that Central Texas authorities want you to consider when trying to ensure that your packages are secure:
1. State law is behind you: The Texas Legislature last year passed tougher penalties for package thieves, elevating the offense from a misdemeanor to a felony in certain cases. The legislation also expands the definition of mail to include packages dropped off by a delivery service or left out for pickup.
2. Find a secure delivery spot: If you know you won’t be at home in time for deliveries, see if your workplace will allow you to have your purchases delivered there.
In Round Rock, a police program called Operation Front Porch lets residents ship their online orders to the station at 2701 N. Mays St., where the packages are stored for free for up to three days for residents to pick up. The program, now in its fourth year, grew from 30 packages received in 2017 to 475 last year. For more information, visit roundrocktexas.gov/frontporch.
3. Get delivery alerts: When you’re notified of a delivery, arrange for a trusted neighbor to keep the package for you. Most delivery services also let you change the drop-off to when you’ll be home or let you pick up packages at their offices.
4. Thieves can strike as you shop, too: During your shopping runs, stow all holiday packages in the trunk of your vehicle, away from prying eyes. Lock and secure all vehicle windows and doors.
Also, park in well-lighted spots, which thieves tend to avoid — and never leave your vehicle with the keys in the ignition or the engine idling, no matter how quick the trip into the store will take.
5. Call police for help: If you think a Grinch has stolen a package, confirm the package was delivered and then file a police report. Call 911 immediately if you see suspicious activity and be sure to get an accurate description of the activity, vehicle or person.
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