Beware; Package Theft a Popular Crime Say Yakima Police

Expecting a package from Amazon? Will you be home when the package arrives? Burglaries, shoplifting, package theft vehicle theft and car prowls all increase during the spring and summer months as people look for a way to make quick money. So get ready because here come the porch pirates.

POLICE URGE YOU TO NOT HESITATE WHEN YOU SEE SOMETHING SUSPICIOUS

Capt. Jay Seely says every year package theft from area homes is one of the biggest problems because it happens so fast and many people aren't sure what to do if they see the crime. Seely says if you see something suspicious in your neighborhood call police.

REPORT YOUR THEFT ONLINE TO THE YAKIMA POLICE DEPARTMENT

He says if you have a package stolen from your home file a report with the Yakima Police Department and if possible see if you or your neighbors have a security video of the theft to help police identify the suspect. You can file the report here https://yakimapolice.org/online-police-reporting/

THINK ABOUT WHERE YOU COULD SEND YOUR PACKAGE SECURELY

Package theft is always a big problem because so many people shop online. If that's what you do and you want to avoid a theft Seely says have your package sent to your work or a neighbor or friend who is always home and alert. Or check with the company you order from to see if the package can be sent to a local outlet or business.

ALWAYS LOOKING FOR AN OPPORTUNITY

He says always lock doors of homes and vehicles and if you are going shopping remember to never leave your package in plain view because Seely says thieves are always looking for crimes of opportunity.