Photo: Credit: City of Mentor
[Mentor, OH] - Although consumers are always encouraged to shop local when they can, online sales are expected to set records again this holiday season. This increase in purchases and deliveries will also increase porch piracy. But, the Mentor Police Department is fighting back with the return of their undercover Porch Pirate detail, which was first launched in 2020.
Officers will operate throughout city neighborhoods utilizing various tools, including unmarked vehicles, surveillance equipment, and bait boxes containing GPS tracking units.
Porch piracy is a crime of opportunity. Thieves will often follow a delivery truck or cruise around an area looking for an attractive target. Specifically, these criminals are looking for high-value items that they can quickly flip for cash.
Residents are reminded that taking precautionary steps to protect themselves is the first line of defense.
Be sure to track your online orders, remove them from your porch as soon as they are delivered, and consider investing in security cameras.
Finally, be a good neighbors and keep an eye out for each other.
If you see a suspicious car, or a theft in progress, jot down the license plate and contact the police. A description of a suspect or their vehicle, a partial license plate, stolen property, and other factors can lead to an arrest.
Those convicted of misdemeanor theft in the City of Mentor can face up to six months in jail, even for a first offense.
If you think you have been a victim of theft, contact the Mentor Police Department at (440) 255-1234 to report it.
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