Creepy Porch Pirates Strike Tacoma Family, Police Union Warns of Low Staffing

Tacoma is experiencing a troubling rise in porch piracy, highlighted by a recent incident where Christmas gifts were stolen from a local family's porch. Surveillance footage captured two suspected homeless individuals stealing the package in broad daylight, leaving the homeowner feeling unsafe in her community. This incident reflects a larger issue, as the Tacoma Police Union has pointed out significant staffing shortages that hinder their ability to combat rising crime rates effectively. The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue area has been named the worst region in the U. S.

for package theft, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The police union's president noted that they often operate with only 90% of the necessary staff, making it challenging to address lower-priority calls, including package theft. The concerned homeowner has called for enhanced resources for the police, such as technology to help identify suspects even when they conceal their identities. As the holiday season approaches, the community is left to grapple with the implications of these crimes and the police's capacity to respond, marking a critical moment for local law enforcement and community safety in Tacoma.