With so many people taking advantage of on-line shopping and free quick shipping “Porch pirates” are more common than ever. There is a bounty of boxes on doorsteps year-round, especially during the holidays. Thieves are opportunists and they are always on the hunt for easy targets.

What Do You Do If Someone Steals Your Package?

In the unfortunate event that your package theft strikes you, there are some steps you should take to resolve the matter. First, make sure to contact the right people.

Contact the Sender

First things first: contact the sender. Often, sellers and/or carriers are sympathetic and have customer service guidelines in place for such mishaps. Know and follow their procedures in these cases.

File a Police Report

If you’re certain someone stole your package, filing a police report is important. This is not just useful to you; it is useful for the entire neighborhood. Remember, call and report it to Law Enforcement before you post about it on social media.

The easiest way to avoid package theft is simply not to have packages left on your porch in the first place. Having it delivered to an alternate location where someone is available to accept it on delivery is the safest and often free way to avoid package theft. Consider partnering with a relative, friend or trusted neighbor who will be home to receive it when it arrives.

Gerardo Becerra

Crime Watch – Crime Prevention Specialist

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department – North District

Community Relations

605 E Westfield Boulevard, Suite 100
Indianapolis, IN 46220

Office: (317) 327-3781

Gerardo.Becerra@indy.gov

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