La Crosse Police catch four ‘porch pirates’

As last-minute holiday gifts arrive on doorsteps, La Crosse Police urged the community to be aware of porch pirates who steal packages delivered to homes.

“As we are in prime porch pirate season, it is especially important to be proactive and protect your treasures,” La Crosse Police said in a statement. “With your diligence, this can be prevented.”

Police caught four individuals over the weekend as they were trying to make their getaway with Christmas presents taken from nearly 10 families. They were charged with theft. Police said several of the stolen packages were recovered and returned to their rightful owners.

La Crosse Police suggested the following tips to prevent theft:

• Have packages shipped to work if possible.
• Reach out to trustworthy neighbors to have them accept packages when they are delivered.
• In special deliver instructions, ask for the package to be left in the backyard and out of sight.
• Install lighting and/or video surveillance.

Police as community members to report stolen packages immediately since the same person may have gone to several different houses. To report a theft, a person can contact the La Crosse Police through the non-emergency number at 608-782-7575 or complete an online report.