Pirates still exist in modern society, but they have a different look.
Porch pirates are defined as those who steal holiday, or any kind of gift or package left outside of one’s residence or business.
These crimes pick up during the holidays and this year has been no exception. Two Rivers Police Chief Brian Kohlmeier says there are several preventive measures you can take to avoid becoming a victim.
One is to instruct your delivery service on where to precisely place your packages. “I think in most situations those delivery persons try to do that but a reminder here and there doesn’t hurt to keep it out of plain sight,” Kohlmeier said. “Somebody drives by and sees it in plain sight can be a ticket of opportunity.”
Technology can also be beneficial to catch would-be thieves. Kohlmeier says providing your smartphone information is the start of a paper trail.“Maybe give an e-mail address or your smartphone information so when the package comes,” the Chief suggested. “You’ll receive a notification, and you can go pick it up without it having to sit there all day.”
Doorbell video surveillance has also proven to be an effective deterrent. Kohlmeier explained that “Even if you aren’t receiving a shipping notification, you can see that something’s been left there and you can call someone. The other thing is that if someone takes the package, we have evidence of who took it. We do use doorbell surveillance to solve crimes.”
The Two Rivers Police Chief also recommends letting a neighbor, family member or friend you can trust watch for when you expect your package(s) to arrive and have them pick those up.
You can also register your doorbell surveillance device with the Police Department.
For more information, e-mail TwoRiversPolice@two-rivers.org or give them a call.
