Novato Police are looking for a porch pirate who swiped several packages from the doorstep of a home on Laurelwood Drive. The theft, which occurred yesterday around 8:30 p.m., was caught on camera with the suspect visible in the footage. The images, released by authorities, show a woman clutching what looks to be an aluminum dish among the pilfered goods, per the Novato Police Department.
Officials have deemed the incident an isolated one, specific to a particular neighborhood, seemingly a singular stain on the community's holiday season. The Novato Police Department (NPD) urges residents to stay vigilant and safeguard their deliveries, proposing several preventative measures. Homeowners are advised to leave their lights on when out, monitor delivery schedules closely, and report any dubious activity to the NPD at 415-897-4361 or, in emergencies, to dial 9-1-1.
For added security, the police recommend utilizing package tracking, installing video doorbells, and making deliveries to Amazon lockers. They also suggest the use of lockboxes for porch areas and requiring signatures on deliveries. Emphasizing the importance of home security systems, the NPD points out that alarm systems and video cameras not only deter criminals but also provide homeowners with a sense of ease, particularly while they are away.
The recent package theft underlines the effectiveness of video surveillance in the fight against such crimes. The NPD encourages participation in their Surveillance Camera Registry and Monitoring (SCRAM) program, details of which can be found on their website. The program is a community-policing effort, enlisting residents as a collective shield against property crime.
Any tips that could lead to the identification of the suspect or further details of the case will be greatly appreciated by the police department. Residents can make their reports and provide information online at novato.org/reportacrime.
