Mayoral Musings: Operation Package Protectors 2023

Mayor Garry Herbert•

As the holiday season is in full swing, our Lansdale Borough Police Department is once again taking a proactive stance against the rising tide of package thefts with its innovative initiative, Operation Package Protectors.

An estimated 1.7 million packages go missing daily in the United States, and a staggering 36% of Americans fall prey to "Porch Pirates." This annual local enforcement effort helps us deliver a better holiday season to all our residents.

Operation Package Protectors is designed to empower Lansdale Borough residents by providing a secure alternative for the delivery of their holiday packages. By allowing residents to have their packages sent directly to the police department's headquarters, the initiative ensures a safer storage option until recipients are ready for pick-up. The best part? This service is offered free of charge, underlining the police department's commitment to community well-being.

To retrieve their packages, residents simply need to visit the police station within three days of delivery, presenting government-issued identification matching the name on the package, along with proof of purchase or a receipt indicating the Lansdale Police Department as the designated delivery address. The weight limit of 25 pounds ensures a manageable process, and packages from major carriers such as Amazon, FedEx, and UPS are all welcomed with open arms.

However, it's essential to note that the initiative exclusively accepts packages from select carriers, explicitly excluding those from the United States Postal Service. The decision reflects the department's focus on ensuring the utmost security and efficiency in the handling of holiday deliveries.

The Operation Package Protectors' proactive approach not only addresses a prevalent issue but also strengthens the bond between the police department and the community it serves. By taking on the role of package protectors, Lansdale Borough Police Department showcases a commitment to the safety and well-being of its residents, fostering a positive relationship that extends beyond the conventional realms of law enforcement.

This delivery option is currently available to all residents in the borough through Dec. 22 and represents a prime example of how a local police department can leverage its resources to positively impact the community during the festive season. Through this innovative program, our police department not only safeguards packages but also nurtures a sense of trust, proving that community-focused initiatives can make a significant difference in the lives of residents.

To accept packages on your behalf, please make sure you address them with your name to the address as seen below.

K. Kringle
C/O Lansdale Police Department
1 Vine St. Suite 101
Lansdale, Pa 19446

(Mayoral Musings is a weekly op-ed column submitted to North Penn Now, courtesy of Lansdale Borough Mayor Garry Herbert. The views expressed are his own and are not representative of North Penn Now or Lansdale Borough.)