EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — As millions of packages are delivered just in time for the holiday season, porch pirates are looking to take advantage.
Miguel Arispe, with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, said mail theft is common year-round, but it increases during the holidays.
“Mail theft is punishable by up to five years in prison with substantial fines. If you are a victim to step out, please contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service immediately,” Arispe said.
In a statement sent to KTSM, the El Paso Police Department advised people who are expecting packages this time of year the following:
Schedule deliveries: If possible, schedule packages to arrive when someone will be home to receive them.
Use package lockers or pick-up centers: Many carriers offer secure options for picking up packages at nearby locations.
Install security cameras: Visible cameras can deter thieves and help identify culprits if theft occurs. This aids the investigator in the case.
Ask a neighbor for help: Have a trusted neighbor collect your packages if you aren’t home.
Use smart doorbell systems: A video doorbell allows you to monitor real-time deliveries.
El Paso resident Lucy Gamez said a package was stolen from her home, and the thief was captured on her ring camera.
“After the frustration, like, being upset, like, ‘Oh, they stole my stuff.’ It was more like, ‘Oh, it would be really sad to see on the news.’ Like, you know, these kids were stealing packages and something really bad happened. That was that. That was my biggest thing.”
Read: Read More