Albany, OR. — With holiday deliveries ramping up after Black Friday, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to take extra precautions against “porch pirates,” as package theft continues to climb nationwide.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Postal Service reported 58 million stolen packages in 2024. When adding losses from major retailers such as Amazon and Walmart, that estimate rises to as many as 241 million packages, representing nearly $16 billion in stolen goods.
“Do you want to be a 2025 statistic?” the Sheriff’s Office wrote in a seasonal advisory, reminding shoppers that most people cannot be home the moment a package arrives—and thieves take advantage of that reality.
Deputies offered several tips to reduce the risk of theft:
- Use package tracking: Most retailers offer delivery notifications, allowing residents to retrieve items quickly—or ask a trusted neighbor to do so.
- Install video doorbells or home cameras: Modern systems provide motion alerts, two-way communication, and even package-detection features that can capture evidence of theft.
- Choose secure pickup locations: Many companies, including Amazon, offer pickup at staffed locations such as pharmacies and convenience stores.
- Require a delivery signature: High-value purchases can often be shipped with a signature requirement, ensuring items aren’t left unattended.
- Shop local: Buying gifts directly from local businesses avoids porch deliveries altogether while supporting the local economy.
While deputies acknowledged that package theft cannot be eliminated entirely, they emphasized that preventative steps can significantly reduce the risk.
“Our hope is that these tips help keep your packages safe this holiday season,” the agency said.
About the Author
