SAN ANTONIO — On Cyber Monday, millions clicked their way through their holiday shopping list, but all those packages being delivered creates plenty of opportunities for porch pirates.
Over the holiday weekend, thieves targeted three neighborhoods across San Antonio and the victims posted pictures and videos online.
Even Prado says while he was enjoying Thanksgiving dinner in the Rio Grande Valley with his family, a man backed into his driveway and open the back door of his SUV.
"I was at Thanksgiving dinner with my family, and we all have our phones with us, right? So, I see a ring alert – someone at my front door. I literally saw the theft happening live," Prado said.
The man on video then sprints to Prado's front door and swipes an Amazon box. Within 15 seconds, he's loaded the package and speeds off.
That theft near De Zavala and Babcock was just one of many posted on Nextdoor over the weekend. Another woman warned neighbors of kids following an Amazon truck on their bikes and stealing packages.
Another homeowner posted a brazen theft of a man casually grabbing a box off her porch.
Earlier, San Antonio Police had released a video of a greedy grinch getting exactly what he deserves in a warning to homeowners and residents about package thieves.
"Don't let the Grinch take your gifts and your joy. If you are expecting a package, let a neighbor know to keep an eye out for it … or hang onto it if you're away from home," the video says.
As for Prado, he says his security lights and cameras didn't stop this thief, so it might be time for a new approach.
"Maybe that is a good way to get around it. Talk to your neighbors; maybe three or four around you, and create a little network," Prado says.
He said all the thief made off with was an inexpensive box of batteries. He did make a police report though. And that's exactly what law enforcement is asking people to do if they do fall victim to porch pirates.
These videos and reports can help them connect thieves to multiple offenses.
