NYPD: Organized ring of porch pirates preying on Staten Island residents [Video]

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The NYPD is warning Staten Island residents of what is believed to be an organized crew of individuals targeting AT&T cellphones ordered to homes.

In a recent interview with the Advance/SILive.com, Lt. Francis Depalma of the Staten Island Detective Bureau Grand Larceny Division described the porch pirates as a ring focused on seeking out Apple phones delivered to residences.

Those committing these thefts are believed to be working together as an organized unit predominantly based out of the Bronx and Upper Manhattan.

The thieves know where to expect the phone deliveries ahead of time, police said.

In warning Staten Islanders of the crime trend, Depalma urged residents to take precautions.

“If they (residents) do buy a cellphone from any retailers and things like that, make sure that they request the option to sign for the package, that’s one thing; or have someone home to receive the …