In a series of brazen package thefts, porch pirates have been targeting small packages containing high-value items such as smartphones and Apple Watches just seconds after they have been delivered to homes. In one incident in Columbus, Ohio on June 9, 2024, a thief made off with Kyle Dorsch's new Apple Watch as a FedEx driver was still at the door. The thief did not seem deterred by the presence of the delivery driver or Dorsch's doorbell camera. In another instance near Philadelphia, porch pirates have been pretending to be Amazon delivery drivers and stealing packages from homes. The retail giant has acknowledged that some of its drivers may be impersonating Amazon employees to commit package theft, and is working with law enforcement to help combat the issue. According to a U.S. Chamber of Commerce survey, the average price of stolen packages is just over $80, and nearly half of those thefts occur at single-unit homes. A quarter of victims report not receiving a refund from the delivery company. In response to the rising problem of package thefts, Florida has made it a third-degree felony to steal anything worth more than $40 from a home, while delivery companies are also increasing security measures such as using unmarked drivers and offering secure lockboxes in some cases.
