Increase in package thefts in Philadelphia during December: Tips to secure your deliveries.

As the holiday season approaches, residents in Philadelphia and surrounding areas are increasingly facing the threat of package theft, commonly referred to as “porch piracy.” Recent data from the Philadelphia Police Department indicates a troubling trend: reports of package thefts from January through November of this year have risen by 6% compared to the previous year. This uptick is particularly concerning as the holiday season is expected to see an even higher incidence of these thefts.

The phenomenon of porch piracy has garnered significant attention, with residents across various neighborhoods expressing their frustration over thefts. Reports reveal that many individuals have lost multiple packages, often snatched before they even receive notification of delivery. For instance, a Fishtown resident reported having over a dozen packages stolen from her doorstep, prompting her and a neighbor to coordinate to collect each other’s deliveries when one is away.

The issue is not confined to the city; suburban areas are also experiencing a surge in package thefts. Residents in communities such as Brookhaven, Cheltenham, and Lower Merion have taken to neighborhood social media groups to voice their concerns and share experiences of theft. The problem is widespread, affecting numerous regions including Levittown, Media, West Chester, and beyond.

Nationally, the scale of package theft has reached alarming proportions. In the past year alone, at least 58 million packages were reported stolen, resulting in financial losses estimated at billion according to a report from the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General. The average value of stolen packages ranges from to 0, illustrating the potential impact on consumers.

The increase in package theft incidents during December is substantial, with historical data suggesting that this month could account for nearly 14% of annual theft reports. If patterns continue, Philadelphia may see around 450 reported thefts this December, culminating in an expected total of approximately 3,300 reports for the year.

To mitigate the risk of becoming a victim of porch piracy, law enforcement and package carriers offer several preventive measures. Recommendations include providing specific drop-off instructions to delivery personnel, redirecting deliveries to secure locations, implementing security cameras to monitor deliveries, and promptly reporting thefts to the police and respective carriers.

As the holiday season unfolds, both consumers and law enforcement need to stay vigilant against the persistent threat posed by porch pirates. With the right precautions, residents can help safeguard their deliveries during this bustling time of year.

Media News Source.