December 2020
Seasons Greetings!
December 2020 is almost over. We are now starting to see light at the end of the tunnel on news networks related to progress with a vaccine for COVID. Simultaneously, to borrow a phrase I frequently use coaching youth boxers, we have to keep our guard up! The winter season brings surging numbers of COVID cases, hospitalizations, and economic impacts as health orders tighten up to slow the spread.
But regardless of the pandemic, Christmas is just a few weeks away. Although it may feel different, the holiday season is upon us. This year, we anticipate more people will be doing their holiday shopping online. Here at ACPD, we also know that means the porch pirates will be out in force. We will keep an eye out for them, and we hope you will, too. If you see a vehicle or people you suspect are involved in parcel or package theft from deliveries, call dispatch at (707) 253-4451.
You are a force multiplier… more eyes and ears to help these grinches! Here are a few additional tips related to package theft and porch pirating:
- If given the option during your online purchase, require a signature. Sure, it can be inconvenient if you aren’t home. You later have to drive to a distribution center to pick up your package. But having your stuff stolen isn’t very convenient either.
- Consider a Porch Pirate Bag that locks to your door (don’t make it easy for them).
- Consider using an Amazon Pick-Up location near your home or your work. UPS stores, some Safeway's, and other box stores, often offer Amazon Pick-Up lockers.
- Home security cameras are becoming more and more affordable. Consider this small investment, which can be both a deterrent, as well as a tool to help us solve crime. If you already have a camera system, confirm your porch is covered by one of the cameras. Also, don’t forget to register your camera with us so you can help us solve crime in your neighborhood.
- Consider setting up a container or box that delivery drivers can drop packages in, which you can tuck away out of sight from the street. Porch pirate crimes are often crimes of opportunity. Greedy thieves may not be looking to steal from you. Still, when they see the package on your porch while driving down your street, the temptation (and greed) is too much, and they will seize the opportunity to steal the package. Out of sight from the street will prevent these opportunists.
- There are, however, more professional thieves who are not just tempted by opportunity. These pirates will look for UPS, FedEx, and Amazon delivery vehicles. They will stalk these vehicles and wait until the coast is clear to run up and steal the recently delivered package. Again, if you see a suspicious vehicle that you suspect is stalking a delivery vehicle, get a good description and give us a call.
Please continue to be kind to one another, be patient with one another, and please have a safe holiday season!
Oscar Ortiz
Police Chief
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