Beware Of 'Porch Pirates': Middletown Police

MIDDLETOWN, PA — Police in Middletown Township are warning the public about a group of "porch pirates" stealing packages from front porches and doorsteps.

On Tuesday, police shared images of a woman apparently stealing a package from a porch. On Facebook, Middletown Police said the incident happened in the Maple Point section of the township.

And it wasn't the only incident of its kind, police said. They said the woman appears to be part of a group of 3-4 people who have been going around stealing the delivery packages.

Tuesday evening, hours after sharing the photos on social media, police said they had been able to identify a suspect thanks to tips from the public.

Authorities offer the following tips for thwarting "porch pirates":

• Try to schedule mail to arrive when you know you'll be home or ask a trusted neighbor to collect your packages.
• If you're not often home, arrange for packages to be delivered to your work address.
• Use an Amazon Locker or similar secure drop-box service or ask delivery companies like UPS to store packages at their facilities for pickup.
• If you know you'll be away for an extended period, you can make a Hold Mail request with the United States Postal Service for up to 30 days. You can also use Informed Delivery to set up a signature service.