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Police investigators in Mount Vernon are investigating a suspicious man who was captured on a doorbell camera walking up to a city home and stealing packages as soon as they were delivered on North Fulton Avenue.
Other packages and items have also been reported stolen in the area.
In the photo, the hooded African American man can be seen wearing a dark jacket and reflective construction vest. No other information has been provided regarding the porch pirate, who walked up to the porch, stole approximately five packages and proceeded to simply walk away.
Police said that locals should be vigilant for people or vehicles that are unfamiliar to the neighborhood, and arrangements should be made to have packages delivered while one is at home, or to have a trusted person secure the items.
According to police, to avoid being the victim of a porch pirate, residents should:
- Request a specific delivery date and time from the shipper when you know you'll be home;
- Have packages delivered to a place where they can be received in person, such as the home of a trusted neighbor, who stays home during the day;
- Request that the shipper hold your package at its pick-up facility so you can pick it up in person at your convenience;
- Provide delivery instructions to the shipper so that packages can be left at a safe location at your home that is out of sight from the street;
- If your employer will allow it, have packages delivered to your place of work;
- Consider a visible surveillance camera and a security company sign near the front door.
Anyone who suspects they have been victimized by porch pirates has been instructed to contact their local police departments or dialing 911.
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