SPRINGFIELD, Mo. ~ As the holiday season approaches, the Springfield Police Department is urging residents to take precautions against porch thefts. With Cyber Monday marking the start of one of the busiest online shopping periods of the year, it is important for individuals to be aware of potential package thefts and take simple steps to prevent them.

According to Lt. Jennifer Charleston, commander of the Property Crimes Section, porch thefts are often crimes of opportunity and can happen in a matter of seconds. To combat this issue, she advises residents to use security measures and technology to deter potential thieves.

Installing security cameras or video doorbells can serve as a visible deterrent for thieves who do not want to be caught on camera. It is important to ensure that these cameras are recording and can capture clear images of any potential suspects. Additionally, smart cameras with motion detection can trigger lights and send alerts directly to a person's phone, providing real-time awareness of any activity around their home.

Residents are also encouraged to register their cameras with the Springfield Police Department. This allows officers to know which homes have surveillance footage that could potentially aid in solving crimes in the neighborhood. However, it is important for individuals to give their permission before officers can access their footage.

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Choosing alternate delivery options can also help prevent porch thefts. This includes having packages delivered to a secure location such as a workplace, P.O. box, Amazon Locker, or another designated pick-up site. Another option is using a porch lockbox, which provides carriers with a secure place to leave packages.

For those who prefer in-person pick up, selecting the "ship-to-store" option when available is recommended. It allows individuals to retrieve their packages from a designated store location instead of having them left unattended on their doorstep.

Managing and tracking deliveries is also crucial in preventing porch thefts. Residents are advised to track their packages and set up alerts so they can quickly retrieve them once they have been delivered. If possible, scheduling or requesting delivery at a time when someone will be home can also help prevent thefts. In cases where individuals may be away, coordinating with a trusted neighbor to pick up each other's packages is another option.

In the unfortunate event that someone falls victim to a porch pirate, the Springfield Police Department has made it quick and easy to file a report online at springfieldmo.gov/police. By taking these simple precautions, residents can help reduce the chances of becoming a victim of porch theft during this busy holiday season.

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