The Spencer Plantation neighborhood in Orange Park, Fla. has fallen victim to porch pirates, just in time for the holidays. The thieves were caught on camera stealing packages, prompting residents to call for the return of the stolen gifts with no questions asked.
According to concerned neighbors, the lack of streetlights in the area may be attracting porch pirates, and this has been an ongoing problem for the last few years. Candace Bleich, a resident of the neighborhood, reported that there have been instances of the thieves following delivery trucks and snatching packages shortly after they are dropped off.
Bleich’s ring camera captured the brazen theft from her front door, as well as the disappointment she feels about the recurring issue in her neighborhood. She emphasized the sentimental value of the stolen items regardless of their monetary worth, appealing to the thieves to return the gifts and consider the emotional impact of their actions.
Porch piracy is not unique to this neighborhood, as Forbes reports that nearly 8 in 10 Americans had a package stolen in 2022. In response, Bleich urges porch pirates to at least return the stolen items and avoid future thefts. She suggests that even leaving a note to apologize would be a measure of goodwill.
To address and prevent porch piracy, it is recommended to use a credit card for online purchases and dispute charges for stolen packages. Installing a doorbell camera and utilizing pickup delivery options like Amazon lockers can also deter thieves. Additionally, community members can collaborate by asking neighbors to pick up packages and requiring signature delivery for added security.
As the holiday season approaches, residents and law enforcement are alert and proactive in combating porch piracy to ensure a festive and stress-free celebration.