As the holiday season approaches and festive packages begin to pile up on porches across Inverness Estates, so do opportunities for a different kind of visitor: porch pirates. These opportunistic thieves strike quickly, snatching deliveries from doorsteps before homeowners even realize their items have arrived.

To help residents safeguard their homes and holiday purchases, the Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office is offering practical advice to outsmart package thieves — and keep the season bright.

Tips from Local Law Enforcement

“While kids are counting down the days until Santa’s big visit, there’s someone else who might be planning an unwelcome holiday stop at your doorstep,” shared representatives from Constable Mark Herman’s Office. Their message is clear: stay proactive.

Here are the top package safety tips from the Constable’s Office:

• Track your packages so you know when they’re out for delivery.

• Request a signature upon delivery whenever possible.

• Redirect packages to a trusted neighbor if you won’t be home.

• Ask neighbors to keep an eye out and collect items if needed.

• Install a video doorbell or home security camera to deter theft and capture evidence.

• Consider secure delivery options like lockboxes, mailbox sensors, or locker pickups.

• Customize delivery times to be home when packages arrive.

• Ship to a store or use contactless pickup services.

• Leave special delivery instructions so packages can be hidden from view.

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Why This Matters in Inverness Estates

In tight-knit communities like Inverness Estates, where residents often rely on neighbors and enjoy front-porch living, these small steps can make a big difference. As online shopping becomes the norm — especially during gift-giving season — thieves know there’s a higher likelihood of unattended deliveries.

According to a recent report by SafeWise, nearly 260 million packages were stolen across the U.S. in the last 12 months — that’s an average of 79 stolen packages per second during peak season. And Texas consistently ranks among the states with the highest incidents of porch theft.

But communities that stay alert and work together have the best odds of preventing these crimes. "Home security is often a shared effort," notes SafeWise security expert Teresa Anderson. "When neighbors look out for one another and use simple security tools, the risk of package theft drops dramatically."

More Than Just Packages at Stake

While the loss of a gift or online order can be frustrating, it also chips away at a sense of safety in the neighborhood. That’s why Constable Herman’s Office urges all residents to stay aware and report suspicious activity immediately. Installing cameras not only helps protect your property, but it may assist law enforcement in solving cases that affect the broader area.

Even low-cost or DIY home security measures — like smart doorbells, motion lights, or even simple signage — can have a meaningful deterrent effect.

Creating a Safer Season for All

By taking small steps now, residents can avoid the stress of dealing with stolen packages later. And while porch pirates may try to dampen the holiday spirit, communities that work together can ensure the season stays joyful — and secure.

Let’s make this season merry and safe — for everyone, except the porch pirates.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.