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Arizona law enforcement agencies team up to stop porch pirates this holiday season

With online shopping expecting record sales, porch pirates will be looking to get away with your holiday surprise so Silent Witness is being proactive.

'Tis the season to start shopping online for the holidays and “porch pirates” will be on the hunt.

Silent Witness announced a new program on Wednesday where they are partnering with Valley police agencies to catch thieves before and after they strike.

The new program runs from Black Friday - the day after Thanksgiving – through Christmas Day. Residents can call in anonymous tips to Silent Witness and they will investigate. There could be a $100 reward if a tip leads to an arrest and prosecution.

“The more eyes that we have out in the community. The more successful we'll be in apprehending these individuals that go up and take advantage of this time of year,” said Chad Benham, president of the board of directors for Silent Witness.

Officials encourage residents to get to know their neighbors and offer to accept their deliveries if they aren’t going to be home. Neighbors are also encouraged to watch out for suspicious people hanging around the neighborhood. 

Officials also suggest having things delivered at work or trusted friend or family member’s residence.

With online shopping expecting record sales, porch pirates will be looking to get away with your holiday surprise.

“Those items are being stolen for a reason. They’re being stolen, they're being sold. Those proceeds are being used to purchase drugs and other things that plague our communities. So, this is very important for all of us,” said Angel Carbajal, assistant chief at the Tempe Police Department.

To submit a tip, visit the Silent Witness website or call 480-WITNESS or 480-TESTIGO for Spanish. 

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