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Silent Witness And Valley Police On The Hunt For Porch Pirates

As the holiday season leads to an increase in online shopping, the season also leads to an increase in appearances from “porch pirates.”

On Wednesday, Silent Witness and Valley police agencies announced a new partnership and program to help identify thieves before and after they strike.

The program will allow residents to make anonymous tips from Black Friday through Christmas Day. There is also a potential $100 reward if tips result in arrest and prosecution.


“The more eyes that we have out in the community. The more successful we’ll be in apprehending these individuals that go up and take advantage of this time of year,” said Chad Benham, president of the board of directors for Silent Witness.

Officials recommend that residents become familiar with their neighbors and offer to accept deliveries on their behalf if they are unable. An alternative to home deliveries would be to have packages delivered at work or the residence of a trusted friend or family member.

It is also suggested that residents keep an eye out for suspicious activity taking place in the neighborhood.

With a forecast of record online shopping sales, porch pirates will be on the hunt for opportunities to steal some holiday cheer.

“Those items are being stolen for a reason. They’re being stolen, they’re being sold. Those proceeds are being used to purchase drugs and other things that plague our communities. So, this is very important for all of us,” said Angel Carbajal, assistant chief at the Tempe Police Department.

Tips can be submitted by visiting the Silent Witness website or by calling 480-WITNESS or 480-TESTIGO for Spanish.