Porch Pirates, Police Partner with Ring & Crime Mapping

According to package theft statistics, more than 23 million Americans have had their packages stolen.  A staggering 11 million homeowners have had a package stolen in the last year.  So, you would think that Ontario is no different.  However, Ontario is different because our Police Department partners with Neighbors by Ring.  The “Neighbors” app is a digital watch program that can be viewed on your phone where you can get real-time crime and safety alerts not only from law enforcement, but from your neighbors too. 

The Ontario Police Department wants you to know what is happening in your neighborhood.  Knowing when a crime has been committed will help police obtain leads and tips.  Better informed residents are much more engaged with its police department and report suspicious activities.  Furthermore, residents can connect with law enforcement and work together to reduce crime and improve public safety while at the same time eliminate false perceptions that crime may be rampant in any neighborhood. 

Check out the Police Departments new Crime Map.  Crimes reported for a week’s period-of-time are plotted with the type of crime that was committed.  Utilize the various analytic tools offered to identify crime trends.  You can also set up an alert and always be in the know.  Read more. 

Follow these tips to avoid being a victim of a Porch Pirate:

Have packages delivered to your workplace or to a location where someone is available to receive the item.

  • Use a P.O. Box.
  • Reroute or reschedule a delivery if you are not home.
  • Require a signature upon delivery.
  • Install a smart security camera at your front door.

Use a free smart package locker. When adding the shipping address during the checkout process, you can find out whether an Amazon locker is available in your community. 

Text “OntarioCA” to 555888 or go to https://download.ring.com/ontario.  Their platform combines the deterrent value of a visible security system with the power of an actively engaged community via a free app to reduce criminal activity and help solve open investigations. 

Known as the “Neighbors Portal” it provides:

  1. No Cost - Neighbors Portal is free to Law Enforcement
  2. Community Engagement – Law Enforcement's ability to join the conversation about posted video
  3. Alerts - You may post Alerts which are highly relevant
  4. Video Request – Law Enforcement may request video from Ring device owners relevant to active investigations.

Downloadable Files