Watch Out For 'Porch Pirate' Thefts In Freehold Township: Police

FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ — Freehold Township police are urging residents to be aware of ongoing “porch pirate” thefts targeting Apple products left on people's porches.

According to police, the thefts are specifically targeting Apple iPhone and iPad deliveries from FedEx and UPS.

The suspects in these incidents steal packages from front stoop/porch areas of residents’ homes “less than a minute after items are delivered," police said.

Detective Lt. Joseph Winowski declined to provide further detail on when these incidents occurred and where because the investigations into them are ongoing.

To prevent packages from being stolen or left out in the open, police are urging residents to require a signature for their deliveries when possible. Alternatively, police said packages can be sent to a FedEx Office location for pickup at a later date or time.

If residents see anything suspicious, Winowski said they should call the police.

“We urge residents to be vigilant when expecting any delivery,” Winowski said. "The investigation is ongoing and we thank the community for their assistance."

The Freehold Township Police Department can be reached at 732-462-7908 or ftpd@Twp.freehold.nj.us.