Amazon Tests Delivering Parcels At Police Stations To Keep Thieves At Bay

Even with doorbell cameras, porch bandits who steal packages remain a problem. Amazon has a creative solution: involve the cops.

The e-commerce giant is taking extra measures to prevent strangers from taking parcels from collection points by moving them within police stations.

Amazon’s package lockers already have systems installed to prevent people from pocketing items that aren’t theirs. However, that hasn’t stopped some from trying to work around the system. In response, the company is trialing two anti-theft pickup points in Washington, DC—particularly, Deanwood and Anacostia in the Sixth District.

According to the Washingtonian, more locations will be added if the added law enforcement security system pans out.

Opting for a police station drop-off works the same as choosing where to have your packages normally delivered. The new locations have been added to the list of places to choose from, and all you would need to do is select the one that is most convenient for you.

You also won’t need any other special identification when heading to the station; just your phone to unlock the locker is needed.

The collection points have been specially decorated by children of Randle Highlands Elementary School, perhaps in a bid to ease collectors who might feel a little intimidated about heading down to the station to pick up their goods. Amazon has donated US$15,000 to the school in thanks for the students’ contribution.

The installation of lockers at the police station makes us wonder how frequently people have their packages stolen for the law to now step in and act as guardians of our Amazon purchases.

[via Engadget and Washingtonian, Photo 163113454 © Gary Hider | Dreamstime.com]