A NEW law is going into effect that will crack down on package thieves with harsher punishments for stealing.
In Florida, so-called porch pirates can expect jail time if they’re caught on camera lifting Amazon deliveries.
So-called porch pirates could face jail time under a new law (file photo)[/caption]
Stealing a package valued over $40 is now considered a third-degree felony under the new Florida law[/caption]
In April, Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 549 into law, which increased penalties for retail theft.
Under the new law, porch pirates who steal property valued at $40 or more can be charged with a third-degree felony.
Anything under $40 would be considered a first-degree misdemeanor under the new law.
Retail theft is now considered a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison if thieves commit the crime with five or more people.
It’s considered a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years, if the crew of thieves uses social media to solicit others to participate in the theft.
And shoplifters could face 30 years with a first-degree felony charge if they steal with a firearm or have two or more prior convictions of retail theft.
“We don’t want to see prices increase, and we certainly don’t want to treat every retail establishment as if every item needs to be under lock and key,” DeSantis said in April.
“You will have toothpaste on the shelf that you can grab, check out, and leave. Imagine that.”
The law will come into effect on Tuesday, October 1.
PREVENTING PACKAGE THEFT
In 2023, an estimated 119 million packages were stolen from the hands of American consumers, according to Security.org.
Legislators nationwide have been brainstorming solutions to the porch pirate issue, especially in metropolitan areas.
Cops in Washington, DC, started baiting thieves with Apple AirTags so they could follow stolen packages.
They were able to capture at least one thief using the new measure.
Another force in Campbell, California, about 50 miles southeast of San Francisco, also planted GPS tracking devices on mail.
“Don’t come to Campbell and take our packages,” Campbell police Captain Ian White told local NBC affiliate KNTV.
“It might be one of ours.”
To prevent package thefts, officials advise delivering to a neighbor or holding mail at the local post office if you know you won’t be home during delivery.
It’s also helpful to install cameras so potential thieves can see they’re being watched.
Plus, online shoppers can request for a signature to be required for delivery so a package will never be left unattended.
If a package is stolen, shoppers should report the theft immediately to the carrier service.
What is porch piracy?
Porch pirates is the term used to describe criminals that steal parcels or packages from unsuspecting homeowners. Cops have shared tips that can help reduce the risk of falling victim to theft.
- Use curbside pickup.
- Install security cameras.
- Have parcels delivered to work addresses.
- Require a signature on deliveries.
- Have a concealed delivery spot.
- Amazon locker delivery.
Source: Franklin County Police
