Porch Pirates Grabbing Packages At Tampa Home Caught On Video

TAMPA, FL — Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw is warning residents that it's the season for porch pirates.

Tampa police are seeking help identifying two people who stole several packages from a home in the 2500 block of Watrous Avenue on Nov. 20 at 11:42 p.m.

"Package thefts are a crime of opportunity," said Bercaw. "There is no greater opportunity than now when many residents have multiple packages delivered several times a week. Porch pirates are looking for easy targets, but even the smallest efforts in protecting and concealing your valuables can make all the difference and help prevent you from becoming a victim."

The Tampa Police Department encourages residents to minimize their risk of becoming a target for porch pirates by following these tips:

• Purchase a porch lock box that is designed to receive packages and keep them secure. Typically lock boxes can only be opened with a key or lock combination.
• Use the feature to track a package, or ask a friend, neighbor or family member to pick up your packages once they're delivered.
• If given the option, require a signature upon delivery.
• Request for packages to be delivered at secure locations such as Amazon lockers, FedEx or UPS stores.
• If you plan on delivering a package directly to recipients, give them a heads-up and ask if they have a delivery preference.

Anyone with information that could assist detectives with their investigation is asked to call Tampa Police at 813-231-6130 or submit an anonymous tip by contacting Crime Stoppers at 800-873-TIPS (8477) or via TIP411.