Crime Stoppers of Windsor-Essex is trying to prevent porch pirates from having a field day this holiday season.
As more people are buying gifts online and having them shipped to their homes, many of the packages are left on porches, making them vulnerable to theft by "porch pirates."
"We are trying to make sure that we promote prevention more than anything," says Police Coordinator Constable Amanda Allen.
As a result, Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of $250 during the month of December for information leading to an arrest of a 'porch pirate' or recovering the stolen property.
Allen says there are some steps online shoppers can take to prevent themselves from falling victim.
"You can require a signature for your package so it doesn't get left on the doorstep or you can use a drop box. You can also rely on your friends and family or neighbours, ask somebody to be at home if you know you are tracking a package and you know it is due to be delivered."
Constable Allen says another option for daytime deliveries is to have the package delivered to your workplace, if possible.
Motion-activated lights can also deter thieves.
Crime Stoppers takes tips anonymously by phone at 519-258-8477 or online at www.catchcrooks.com