GARDNER, MA – A wave of porch piracy has hit communities in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania, with thieves donning Amazon delivery vests to disguise their true intentions. Law enforcement agencies in both states have reported an uptick in these crimes, where culprits switch out delivered packages with empty boxes, making off with valuable items.
In Gardner, a city located about 90 minutes northwest of Boston, police have observed a significant rise in such incidents. The suspects, dressed in counterfeit Amazon vests, approach homes carrying empty boxes and leave with packages that had been delivered earlier. The Gardner Police Department has shared images of a suspected thief and urged residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Similarly, in Haverford Township, Pennsylvania, authorities are on the lookout for a suspect who targeted homes on Covington Road in Havertown. The local police department has asked for the public’s assistance in identifying the individual, who was caught on camera pretending to make an Amazon delivery while stealing packages.
The vests used in these crimes are available for purchase online, although Amazon claims that only employees can buy them through its platform. However, other websites sell realistic-looking vests at low prices, making it easy for criminals to obtain them. This method of disguise is not unlike how some criminals acquire fake police gear to impersonate law enforcement officers.
The rise in porch piracy has become a significant concern, especially as online shopping continues to grow. According to a recent study, more than half of stolen packages are Amazon deliveries, followed by those from postal services and other courier companies. The pandemic has exacerbated this issue, with many Americans increasing their online purchases, leading to a surge in package thefts.
Statistics from various studies highlight the extent of the problem. A Forbes Home study estimated that $1.7 trillion worth of deliveries have been stolen since 2020. More recent data from the Chamber of Commerce indicates that one in four online shoppers has fallen victim to porch pirates, with the average value of stolen packages being around $82.
Authorities are urging residents to take precautions, such as using doorbell cameras and being observant of their surroundings. While some believe that doorbell cameras can deter thieves, others remain skeptical. Nonetheless, staying alert and reporting suspicious activity can help curb this growing problem.