Detectives are seeking assistance in identifying the suspects involved.
To view the surveillance video: https://youtu.be/Od_J1y3m4rw
“Package thefts are a crime of opportunity,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “There is no greater opportunity than now when many residents have multiple packages delivered several times a week. Porch pirates are looking for easy targets, but even the smallest efforts in protecting and concealing your valuables can make all the difference and help prevent you from becoming a victim.”
The Tampa Police Department encourages residents to minimize their risk of becoming a target to porch pirates by following these tips:
-Purchase a porch lock box that is designed to receive packages and keep them secure. Typically lock boxes can only be opened with a key or lock combination.
-Utilizing the feature to track a package, ask a friend, neighbor, or family member to pick up your package(s) once they’re delivered.
-If given the option, require a signature upon delivery.
-Request for packages to be delivered at secure locations such as Amazon lockers, FedEx or UPS stores.
-Bonus: If you plan on delivering a package directly to a recipient, give them a heads-up and ask if they have a delivery preference.
Anyone with information that could assist detectives with their investigation is asked to call Tampa Police at 813-231-6130 or submit an anonymous tip by contacting Crime Stoppers at 800-873-TIPS (8477) or via TIP411.