HARRISBURG, Pa. — Note: The above story aired Nov. 30.
“Porch-pirates” beware.
Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a new law this week aimed at stiffening the penalties for those who repeatedly steal mail and packages from other people.
Until now, mail theft was charged using other theft offenses based just on value of the item stolen, said the bill’s sponsor, state Senator Frank Farry.
Now, the penalty for the crime scales not just with the pilfered parcel's worth, but also with how many times the alleged thief has been caught and convicted before.
“With online shopping being a growing method of commerce, package thefts have been on the rise nationwide. It’s time to hold these thieves accountable,” Farry said in a statement. “This bill focuses on repeat offenders by using a grading system that would increase the penalties if the thief had prior convictions for theft of mail.”
Pennsylvania is now the ninth state to adopt a law that makes porch piracy a felony, Farry’s office said.
South Abington Twp. Police Chief Paul Wolfe believes the new law may make people think twice before stealing a package from a stranger's porch.
"It’s another tool in our box," Wolfe said.
First time offenders who steal mail worth less than $200 can expect a summary — sort of like a ticket.
The penalties get more severe from there.
Those who break the law three or more times can be charged with a felony, as could anyone who steals mail valued at more than $2,000.
"I think that this is great," said Throop Police Chief Andrew Kerecman. "If you don't penalize somebody for doing something they'll continue to do it."
Porch piracy is something that the Throop police have had to contend with in recent days. Last week, someone stole pots and pans, children's clothing and more from the porches of three households.
The Throop police currently have a suspect in mind and Kerecman said theft charges will be filed.
"Thank God for video surveillance," Kerecman said.
Other police departments in Lackawanna County are also dealing with similar episodes of porch piracy.
On Wednesday morning, a thief stole a skateboard from the 800 block of Main Street in Dickson City.
On Tuesday, someone stole a tote that held seven packages right out of an Amazon delivery truck parked on McKenna Court in Scranton, said Police Capt. Dennis Lukasewicz.
Whoever it was also stole the delivery driver's lunch.
The new porch-pirate law will take effect after 60 days.
Pennsylvania is now the ninth state to adopt a law that makes porch piracy a felony, Farry’s office said.