Police warn residents of 'porch pirates'

The Rochester Police Department is warning residents to beware of "porch pirates," or thieves who target home deliveries left unattended during the holiday season.

"There have been a couple reports of packages being removed from porches," the department said in a release on the city's website.

The department recommended a list of tips to avoid being targeted by those looking for easy pickings during the holiday shopping season.

"It's a good idea to have a plan for holiday package deliveries," the department said. "You can have items shipped to your work, or ask a neighbor who is home during the day to keep an eye out.

"In addition, tracking your packages, being available for delivery, requiring a signature and opting for an in-store pickup when available are all preventative measures."

The department also recommended keeping a security camera or doorbell camera pointed at your doorstep as a means of preventing thieves.

Police ask anyone observing suspicious activity or people to contact the police department at 248.651.9621.