TACOMA- Thieves Target Packages Left on Porches

KOMO 4 TV reports that thieves have been stealing packages left on home porches by delivery services such as UPS and FEDEX in the Tacoma area. A twist to this long term problem is that the thieves will leave an empty box when they take the just delivered full box. http://www.komonews.com/news/112117539.html.

This kind of theft from homeowners can happen year around and in any neighborhood in Puget Sound, but homeowners are especially vulnerable during the holidays when package delivery volume becomes higher.

Some things you can do to prevent becoming a victim include:

• Have a trusted stay at home neighbor hold your package for you until you come home
• When at home keep a watch for suspicious vehicles following UPS, FEDEX or Postal Service trucks. If you see a suspicious vehicle, call 911 and report the license number, vehicle description, and direction of travel.

UPS suggests:

• Have the shipper require a signature on delivery
• Have the package sent to your work where someone will be present to accept it.