AUSTIN (KXAN) — Mail thefts have been a serious problem the Austin Police Department has been trying to prevent. In efforts to tackle these ongoing problems, the department plans to collaborate with various community members to discuss concerns, as well as how to handle these situations.
Over the past several years, APD has seen almost a 30% increase in mail theft from 2022 to 2023, and unfortunately, those numbers are not slowing down. Incidents reported in 2024 indicated to the department that stolen mail is still — and continues to be — a widespread issue within the community, according to a memo sent from Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis to Austin City Council.
In the memo, Davis addressed the issue and how the department plans to combat mail thefts. The letter said that APD will meet with community members including residents, representatives of homeowner and neighborhood associations, business owners, property managers and others to discuss “neighborhood-level concerns.” These conversations will help the department assess safety plans, the memo said.
Having these meetings are important for police staff to both listen and educate community members about crime and safety concerns, the memo said. Additionally, this will allow the department to develop tailored response plans which could include direct police watch and security site assessments.
Site assessments are conducted for police to determine which areas will need improved security. APD staff may recommend the following, according to the memo:
- Additional lighting
- Camera installations
- Changes to landscaping to help prevent crime from occurring
The department also plans to develop and roll out campaigns to raise awareness and prevention across the city’s social media platforms. These campaigns will share tips on how to prevent mail theft and direct visitors to an official webpage with resources for victims, the memo said. Victims of mail theft will be able to report and find help on the site as well.
What information will the page provide for victims of mail theft? The following is noted from the memo:
- How to report mail theft
- Recommended actions to take after mail theft has occurred to reduce the likelihood and impact of financial crimes
- How to get in touch with an APD detective about an open investigation
- How to request a security site assessment through an APD District Rep.
Austinites can find these messages on city social media sites, e-newsletters, city council offices, local media partners and more.
APD will continue to advocate for postal delivery security and find ways to decrease the number of mail theft cases in Austin. The department will work with the City Intergovernmental Relations Office (IGRO) to push for legislative changes, the memo said.