Package theft in Rowlett — which neighborhoods are getting hit hardest

Package theft in Rowlett is getting worse and it follows a predictable pattern. Based on reports in the Rowlett Community Facebook group, the Nextdoor app, and Rowlett PD's community briefing, here is what we know.

Most affected neighborhoods (2026 reports):

1. Liberty Grove — Highest number of reported porch pirate incidents. The neighborhood has a lot of through-traffic and the street layout allows easy in-and-out access.
2. Princeton Park — Second highest. Similar issue with accessible street layout and multiple entry/exit points.
3. Waterview — Lower rate but increasing. The gated sections are mostly unaffected. The non-gated streets near the entrance are the targets.
4. Bayside — Lowest reported rate. The newer construction and the neighborhood layout with limited access points seem to deter thieves.

The pattern:

• Most thefts occur between 11 AM and 3 PM on weekdays
• Thieves follow delivery trucks. They watch the Amazon/UPS/FedEx truck make deliveries and then circle back 10-15 minutes later.
• Packages left on front porches for more than 2 hours are the primary targets
• Small packages are taken more often than large boxes (easier to grab and run)

What is working:

• Amazon Locker at the Whole Foods/Amazon pickup on Lakeview — free, secure, no porch exposure
• Ring/Blink cameras — the deterrent effect is real. Homes with visible cameras are skipped.
• Package lockboxes — the large steel boxes you bolt to your porch. Yale and Architectural Mailboxes both make them. $80-150.
• Delivery to workplace — if your employer allows it, this eliminates the risk entirely.
• Informed Delivery from USPS — free service that emails you images of your incoming mail. Lets you know exactly when packages arrive.

What Rowlett PD says:

• Report every theft even if the value is low. Stats drive patrol allocation.
• Share camera footage on the Rowlett Community Crime Watch Facebook group. They monitor it.
• Consider package delivery scheduling if your carrier offers it. UPS My Choice and FedEx Delivery Manager let you set delivery windows.

Package theft is annoying but it is also one of the most preventable crimes. A $100 camera and a lockbox solve 90% of the problem.