Bangor PD Looking For Help To Find Porch Pirate, Offers Free Advice

As we get into the full swing of the holiday gift-buying and gift-receiving season, there's an inevitable and marked increase in holiday packages being delivered in the mail.

And as those packages pile up on porches, they make easy targets for those with less-than-honorable intentions.

That's why the Bangor PD, along with asking for some help identifying one of these "porch pirates" as they've been called, is also advising folks on ways to keep their parcels protected so they don't get pinched.

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Sgt. Wade Betters of the BPD says one of the first things you can do is to try to make sure to schedule your package to be delivered at a time when you know you (or someone you trust) will be home to receive it and bring it right inside.

Betters says you want to avoid leaving deliveries on your porch or front step, in plain view, for long.

If you have the means and the space at the front of your house, you could consider installing a secure lockbox big enough to accept packages.

Another pretty simple idea, specify that the deliveries be dropped off at a back or side door, so they are not visible to those walking by on the street.

Betters says motion lights and security cameras can sometimes make folks think twice about taking things that aren't theirs. He says another helpful tip is to make friends with your neighbors and ask them to keep an eye out for any deliveries if you do have to leave the house.

Unfortunately, despite your best efforts, some folks just can't keep their hands to themselves.

One such instance occurred earlier this week on Jefferson Street in Bangor this Wednesday. As you'll see in the video they release, this alleged situation apparently took place in broad daylight. And if you witnessed this moment, Betters says some officers at the Bangor PD would be interested in hearing from you.

"If anyone recognizes the person in the video, please notify Officer Robert Hallett. You can reach Officer Hallett by calling 947-7484 ext. 5751, or via email at Robert.hallett@bangormaine.gov."