Springfield, Mo. – As the holiday season brings a surge in online shopping, Springfield police are warning residents that porch thefts tend to increase during this busy time. Lieutenant Jennifer Charleston, commander of the Property Crimes Section, outlined a series of straightforward measures that families can take to safeguard their deliveries and keep the season joyful.
Know When Your Packages Arrive
Lt. Charleston emphasized the importance of using tracking updates provided by carriers. “When you’re having packages delivered to your home, make sure that you utilize the tracking updates that you get, whether it’s from an e‑mail or a text message,” she said. “That way you know when the package is delivered so you can remove the package from your porch as soon as possible.”
Enlist Trusted Help
If you know you will be away, the police recommend asking a neighbor or another trusted person to collect the package for you. Deliveries can also be redirected to a workplace or another secure location, reducing the time a package sits exposed on a front porch.
Invest in Simple Security Measures
Security cameras, adequate outdoor lighting, and secure package boxes are effective deterrents. “Package boxes can also help hide the package so they’re not seen right away from the street view,” Charleston explained. These low‑cost solutions not only protect parcels but also reinforce neighborhood safety.
Retailer Options for Safer Delivery
Major retailers are offering additional tools to help shoppers protect their purchases. Andy DiOrio, a spokesperson for Amazon, noted that customers can select a specific delivery window or choose a day of the week when all packages will arrive. Shoppers may also provide extra delivery instructions, such as directing drivers to place packages behind a planter or under a bench, keeping them out of plain sight.
Reporting a Stolen Package
When a package is suspected to be stolen, Springfield police advise residents to first contact the retailer to report the missing item. Afterward, filing a police report is essential. Lt. Charleston reminded the community that stealing packages off a porch is a Class E felony, underscoring the seriousness with which the department treats these crimes.
Community Responsibility
Protecting holiday deliveries is a shared responsibility that aligns with the values of strong families and safe neighborhoods. By staying informed, using available technology, and looking out for one another, Springfield residents can enjoy a peaceful holiday season free from the frustration of package theft.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
