Porch Pirates, Car Break-Ins Rise During Holidays, Police Warn

Police Warn of ‘Crimes of Opportunity’ as Christmas Nears

As Christmas approaches, local law enforcement is urging residents to stay alert, noting a seasonal uptick in so-called “crimes of opportunity” like package theft, vehicle break-ins, and residential burglaries. In Georgetown, police say the combination of online shopping, crowded parking lots, and holiday travel creates ideal conditions for thieves looking for easy targets.

Protecting Your Packages
Police recommend closely tracking deliveries and ensuring someone is home to bring packages inside as soon as they arrive. For those who can’t be home, a locked delivery box can help reduce the risk of porch piracy by keeping packages out of sight and out of reach. Even simple steps like asking a neighbor to grab deliveries can make a difference.

Shopping Smart in Parking Lots
Holiday shopping often means full carts and busy parking areas, which can distract shoppers from basic safety habits. Officers advise locking car doors at all times and placing shopping bags in the trunk rather than leaving them visible inside the vehicle. Thieves often target cars where purchases are easily seen, even if the owner is only gone for a short time. Shopping with another person is also encouraged, particularly after dark.

Home and Travel Safety
For those traveling over the holidays, police suggest securing homes by locking doors and windows, using lights on timers, and asking a trusted person to keep an eye on the property. Sharing travel plans or vacation photos on social media before returning home can unintentionally signal that a house is empty.

Trash Can Tell-All
Large boxes left at the curb can advertise new purchases to potential thieves. Police recommend breaking down boxes or waiting until trash pickup day to put them out, ideally under cover of darkness.

Officers also remind partygoers to plan ahead for safe transportation and avoid driving impaired, ensuring the holidays stay joyful — and safe — for everyone.