ORANGE PARK, Fla – An Orange Park neighborhood was attacked by porch pirates just before the holidays and it was all caught on camera.
Now residents of the Spencer Plantation neighborhood are demanding the thieves return the gifts – no questions asked.
Neighbors said the lack of street lights in the area may be the reason for the attraction of porch pirates and that it has been a problem for several years.
“There is a report of people actually chasing vans. And once the deliveries are made, they wait a few minutes and then go get the package,” said neighbor Candace Bleich.
Bleich's Ring camera filmed the porch pirates stealing packages from her front door.
Watch the video below.
Bleich said this has been a problem in her Orange Park neighborhood for the past few years. She calls it disappointing.
“It doesn't matter if it's a $5 keychain or, you know, a $500 piece of china or whatever, it doesn't matter what it is, it comes from the heart.” It's for someone else you love. There's a reason you bought this gift. And it’s not about taking it away from someone else,” Bleich said.
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This is also a widespread problem.
Forbes reports that in 2022, nearly 8 in 10 Americans had a package stolen.
Bleich has a message for the porch pirates.
“Even if the package is opened, you know, even if you don't want to sit there and knock on the door and meet the person face to face. Leave a message. You know, it would be nice if they apologized. But at least get it back, sit there and of course don’t do that again in the future,” Bleich said.
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It's always a good idea to buy things online with a credit card. If you had a package stolen from your porch, you may be able to dispute the charge or inquire about what protections there are for a refund.
Although it didn't stop them in this case, a doorbell camera can sometimes deter thieves.
Police also recommend asking a neighbor or family member to pick up a package that is left on the porch for a while. Pick-up options such as an Amazon locker should be used or a signature should be required upon delivery.
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