BPD Community Alert: The Boston Police Department is issuing a community alert following a recent increase in robberies targeting food delivery drivers. These incidents, which have been reported in Mattapan and Hyde Park, have raised concerns for the safety of drivers working for various app-based and independent food delivery services.
Incident Overview
In the past month, BPD has received multiple reports of delivery drivers being robbed while attempting to drop off food orders. In most cases, drivers were approached by one or more individuals and threatened—sometimes with weapons—before being robbed of the food delivery.
BPD Safety Recommendations
To help mitigate the risk of these crimes, the Boston Police Department is offering the following safety tips to delivery drivers:
- Remain Aware: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when delivering in unfamiliar or low-visibility areas.
- Verify Address Details: If something seems suspicious about the delivery location, consider contacting the customer through the app or calling the delivery company for verification.
- Stay in Touch: Let a friend or family member know your route, or use apps that allow real-time location sharing.
- Avoid Carrying Cash: Minimize carrying cash while working and report any customers who insist on cash payments outside the app’s payment system.
- Trust Your Instincts: If a situation doesn’t feel right, don’t approach. Call the customer from a safe distance or notify the platform and leave the area.
Report Suspicious Activity
The Boston Police Department is actively reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with information is strongly urged to contact District E-18 Detectives at (617) 343-5607.
Community members who wish to provide information anonymously may do so through the CrimeStoppers Tip Line:
📱 By Phone: 1-800-494-TIPS
💬 By Text: Text “TIP” to CRIME (27463)
🌐 Online: Boston Police CrimeStoppers
Photos and videos related to the investigation can also be submitted anonymously via CrimeStoppers. The Boston Police Department strictly protects the identities of those who assist in investigations anonymously.