Increase in Parcel & Delivery Package Thefts – HAMPSTEAD TOWN

Increase in Parcel & Delivery Package Thefts – HAMPSTEAD TOWN

Dear Residents,

We’ve had reports of an increase in parcels being stolen shortly after delivery in parts of Hampstead Town. This type of theft is happening more often across the country, with offenders quickly taking packages left in open view on doorsteps, shared hallway areas, and building entrances.

Your Hampstead Town Safer Neighbourhood Team is increasing visibility and monitoring affected locations—but we also need your help to reduce opportunities for thieves.

🔒 How to Prevent Parcel Theft

1. Track your parcel

Keep an eye on delivery times so you or someone else can be home when it arrives.

2. Install a video doorbell

A video doorbell alerts you to deliveries in real time and records important evidence if a theft occurs. It’s easier to install than full CCTV.

3. Install a security light

A sensor‑activated light can deter opportunistic thieves by making your doorway more visible.

4. Ask a trusted person to accept parcels

If you won’t be home, ask:

A neighbour

A family member

A concierge (if you live in a flat)
to accept the delivery for you.

5. Use a secure off‑site locker or pickup point

Locker services (e.g., Amazon Locker, supermarket pickup points) are safer than having parcels left outside your home, especially for frequent or valuable deliveries.

📦 Extra Tips

These simple steps can make a big difference:

Reduce visibility: Ask drivers to leave parcels out of sight (behind bins, behind planters, or at a side entrance).

Act fast: Many thefts happen within minutes of delivery—try to bring parcels inside as soon as possible.

Avoid leaving parcels in communal hallways: These are common targets in flats and shared buildings.

Add delivery instructions: Most delivery apps allow you to write “Hidden location only” or “Deliver to neighbour if no answer.”

If Your Parcel Goes Missing

Check with neighbours.

Look at any video doorbell/CCTV footage you have.

Report the missing parcel to the retailer or delivery company (they often replace stolen items).

Let your Safer Neighbourhood Team know so we can identify hotspot areas and increase patrols.

📞 Need to Report Something?

Please use the right service:

999 – If a crime is happening right now or someone is in danger

101 – To report a crime after it has happened or to share information

Online – Report non‑emergency crime at www.met.police.uk

Crimestoppers (anonymous): 0800 555 111 – If you want to give information without giving your name

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Message Sent By
Abdul Majid Catubig
(Metropolitan Police Service, Police Community Support Officer, Hampstead Town)