Worcester Police Warn Of 'Porch Pirates' Who Target, Steal Packages

WORCESTER, MA — Worcester police are warning residents of a rise in so-called "porch pirates," or people who target packages by delivery drivers.

The Worcester Police Department recorded 43 reported package thefts from Oct. 1 to Dec. 8. Many of this year's thefts have happened in lobbies or shared mailrooms, according to police.

Still, the number of thefts is down from last year, when there was a nationwide rise in iPhone thefts. In 2024, there were 69 reported package thefts in the city during the same time period.

• Related: Vehicle Thefts Were Up In Worcester Last Month, Police Said

Here are some things police say residents can do to stop package theft:

• Require a signature for delivery
• Don't leave packages unattended for long periods
• Pick up packages in-store or at a designated receiving center
• Install a security camera
• Use a secure box or lockbox for packages
• Provide instructions for delivery to a concealed area
• Sign up for services like UPS My Choice, FedEx Delivery Manager, or USPS Informed Delivery to specify delivery instructions

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