Amazon Key takes on package thieves, drops order off inside homes

Amazon is taking on package thieves with it newest delivery option. Its called Amazon Key and allows you to have deliveries dropped off inside your home.

Some are already skeptical, including law enforcment officials. They worry this may solve one problem, but create a  whole host of new ones. 

John Houghton of Los Gatos says he's tired of packages being stolen from his porch.
He has surveillance video of thieves making off with his daughter's brand new desk last year. He says he'd be open to a better option.
　
"I think it would make me feel better about having a delivery made, if it was put safely inside my door," Houghton says.
　
That's exactly what the new amazon key service promises to provide.

Here's how it works: You get an app, a smart lock with a key pad, and amazon's brand new cloud cam, which will be trained on your door.

Then when it's time for delivery, you can watch in real time, as Amazon unlocks the door, the delivery person enters and drops your package inside.

Still law enforcement officials say from a safety standpoint, you may be better off leaving your package outside.

Sgt. Rich Glennon of the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office says, "Your exposure is the package that's on your porch. That's your loss. But if you open your home up to a delivery person, you've opened up everything. All your valuables are at least in view and you know a theft might come later." 

Amazon officials say there will be plenty of safety measures in place. Plus no access codes are actually given to the delivery drivers.

The "key" equipment costs about $250 and can also be used to in let dog walkers, or house cleaners.
　
"I would do it myself. I would have that trust. But if it's me, myself, yes. But if it's the public as a general, i don't know how it's going to fly," says Marianne Lian of Los Gatos.
　
Some like Erv Fettchenhauer say he'd feel uncomfortable letting a stranger in.
　
"Safety standpoint, I like the idea of their lockers up at Safeway or something. So I'd prefer that," he says. 
　
But others like Bill Decker believe the pros of amazon key will likely outweigh the cons.
　
Decker says, "I don't want to have to be staying at my house for a delivery man to come. So this ease of convenience for me as a consumer, is a huge plus."
　
Amazon is unveiling the service just in time for the holiday season. Amazon Key will be available in 37 cities, including the Bay Area, starting November 8th.