Tampa Police Warn Residents of Increased Risk of Package Theft

The Tampa Police Department is warning residents of an increased risk of theft and break-ins during the holiday season.

Tampa Police are actively searching for a suspect and vehicle in connection with multiple reports of packages stolen off front porches this year. The incident pictured occurred on Adalia Avenue around Oct. 25.

When handling package deliveries during the holidays, keep in mind these tips from Consumer Reports:

• Choose a shipping option that requires you to sign for delivery.
• Check on the package’s delivery status online so you can try to be home when it arrives.
• Leave a note asking the delivery service to leave the package with a neighbor.
• Have the package shipped to another location where someone can receive it, like your office or a friend’s home.
• Ask the delivery service to hold your package for customer pickup.
• File a theft report immediately if you think your package was stolen, and contact your credit card company to find out if it offers a purchase-protection service that might reimburse you for stolen purchases.

If you do not receive your shipment on time, check with the company to confirm the delivery. If the item was delivered and you did not receive it, report the theft or loss to the original company, the shipping company, and the Tampa Police Department at (813) 274-8211.

Many of these crimes occur during broad daylight. As always, be alert about suspicious behavior in your neighborhood, especially if you see a delivery truck making rounds followed by a vehicle or unfamiliar subjects on foot. Report this type of suspicious activity to the Tampa Police Department or call 9-1-1 if you observe a crime in progress.

Write down as much descriptive information as you can about the type of vehicle, color, make/model and license plate information. If possible, provide descriptive information about the person or persons in the vehicle including age, hair color, clothing description and color. Include distinguishing features such as facial hair, tattoos, height, or anything else you think may help deputies identify the suspect(s).

Have you ever had a package stolen from your home? Tell us about it in the comments.

Image: Courtesy of Tampa Police Department