New West police are reminding thieves that what you see isn’t necessarily what you’re going to get.
In an effort to combat parcel theft this holiday season, the New Westminster Police Department is stepping is getting some help from high-tech bait packages and community members.
Since launching the bait package program in December 2022, the NWPD has placed packages containing tracking technology on doorsteps and in mailboxes across New West. These packages are set up at prearranged locations with the homeowner’s consent, allowing police to track and identify thieves attempting to steal them.
“Families in New Westminster don’t need their holidays ruined by stolen packages,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver, the NWPD’s media relations officer. “Thieves should think twice before grabbing something off a porch, especially during this busy season. Our bait packages are out there, and we’re ready.”
In addition to the bait program, New Westminster police encourage residents to take additional steps to further reduce the opportunity for theft:
- Speak with neighbours to keep an eye on deliveries.
- Have packages delivered to a secure location, such as a workplace or a designated pickup locker.
- Retrieve packages and check mailboxes promptly.
- Consider shipping insurance for valuable items.
“We’re asking residents to stay proactive and take simple steps to protect their parcels,” Leaver said.
According to a NWPD news release, the bait package program is a tool the police department uses year-round to deter package theft.
Residents interested in hosting a bait package to help deter parcel theft in their neighbourhood are encouraged to email [email protected] for more information. Additionally, posters advertising the bait package program are available from the lobby of the New Westminster Police Department.
