Washington County, OR – With holiday deliveries ramping up this week, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to take extra steps to protect packages left at their doors, warning that thefts tend to spike during peak shopping periods.
According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, so-called “porch pirates” often target homes where packages are left unattended for extended periods, especially during the holiday season when delivery volumes are at their highest.
Officials recommend several simple steps to reduce the risk of theft. These include scheduling deliveries for times when someone is home, using secure package lockers or pickup locations offered by retailers, and asking a trusted neighbor to retrieve packages if you’re away. Deputies also suggest minimizing how long boxes sit outside by tracking deliveries closely.
The warning comes as online shopping continues to dominate holiday gift-buying, increasing the number of packages visible on porches throughout Washington County and the greater Portland metro area. Law enforcement agencies say thieves often look for easy opportunities, particularly in residential neighborhoods during daytime hours.
The sheriff’s office also encourages residents to report suspicious activity and consider using doorbell cameras or security systems, which can act as a deterrent and assist with investigations if thefts occur.
Residents who experience package theft are urged to report it promptly, providing delivery confirmation details and any available video footage. Authorities say timely reporting helps identify patterns and allocate patrol resources more effectively.
As the holiday season continues, deputies say a few proactive steps can go a long way in keeping gifts safe and reducing crime across the county.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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