North Carolina police warn about surge of cellphone thefts by porch pirates

DURHAM, N.C. (WNCN) — Durham police are warning the community about a surge of package thefts across the city. This time, thieves are targeting deliveries containing cellphones.

Recent surveillance video from Durham police shows a man swiping a package from someone’s porch while impersonating an Amazon delivery driver.

NewsNation affiliate WNCN spoke off-camera with the victim in this case.

“I was horrified and mad,” they said.

On Monday, the Durham Police Department warned the community about an uptick in similar crimes costing people hundreds of dollars.

According to police, the department has received 30 reports of delivered phones stolen from doorsteps so far this year. That number is up from 18 reports for all of last year.

Recently, CBS 17 spoke with residents about the trend in porch thefts.

“I had seen some reports on Nextdoor about this happening, but I wasn’t aware how common it was occurring,” Durham resident Vanessa Burrowes said.

If you’re expecting a phone delivery, the Durham Police Department has a number of tips:

• Track your package: Take advantage of package tracking to monitor your
  delivery.
• Require a signature: Request a signature for delivery of your package.
• Pick up in person: Have your phone delivered to a store and pick it up in
  person.
• Use a video doorbell: A video doorbell can help deter theft.
• Use a porch lockbox: A porch lockbox can help keep packages safe.
• Use a mailbox sensor: A mailbox sensor can help keep packages safe.
• Make it obvious you’re being recorded: Make it clear that you’re being recorded to
  help deter theft.
• File a claim: If your package is stolen, you can file a claim with the shipping
  company. This may help you get a refund from the seller.
• Store your phone safely: Store your phone in a safe place, like a zip pocket inside
  your coat or bag

Police are still investigating these crimes and they said this latest spree is not related to the man impersonating an Amazon delivery driver in May.

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