Kangaroo adds Pepper Spray Feature to Doorbell Camera

In the never-ending battle between homeowner and porch pirate, we’re introducing a new feature on our Doorbell Camera, which will allow users to dispatch pepper spray on would-be thieves. Starting this May, new versions of the $20 Doorbell Camera will come equipped with four shots of pepper spray, which could be described as a sufficient-enough irritant to dissuade porch pirates from returning to the scene of the crime.

“We've always recognized that smart doorbells are great at seeing but not stopping porch pirates. That's why we introduced our Porch Protection Plan in 2020, which reimburses Kangaroo users for stolen packages,” said Bob Stohrer, CMO. “Now we're going one step further, allowing these same customers to take their own shot at porch poachers.”

Our new pepper spray feature is activated through the Kangaroo app, which enables Doorbell Camera owners to take action whether at home or remote. There isn’t yet a way for users to refill their Doorbell Camera once the pepper spray is depleted, but we’re considering replacing devices for those that are in need of replenishment.

The police may not be as enamored with this new feature as we are, however. One New Jersey law enforcement official commented, “while we recognize that package theft is now widespread and rampant, we don't endorse or encourage citizens to take matters into their own hands. It's just adding fuel to the fire.”

In fact, package theft is on a rather steep climb. According to C+R Research, 43% of Americans were the victims of package theft in 2020 spurred on by the dramatic increase in online shopping due to Covid-19.

We will also be equipping customers with handy window stickers that warn porch pirates not to eye up their packages too closely, or else.

“We think it's time to make porch pirates into April Fools once and for all,” concluded Stohrer.