Video Of Jefferson County 'Porch Pirate' Leads To Arrest

BESSEMER, AL - After a series of thefts from the yards and porches of Jefferson County residents, a suspect known as the "Porch Pirate" has been arrested by the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office. Video footage of one of the thefts helped law enforcement capture 34-year-old Amanda Nicole Ramos last Wednesday.

Citizens from the Morgans Run subdivision in Bessemer provided video of a theft from their porch to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office which led to the arrest. Deputies issued a BOLO (be on the lookout) for the suspect and vehicle. Patrol deputies were able to locate the vehicle and track down Ramos. When Ramos was found, she was in possession of stolen property as well as drugs, digital scales, drug paraphernalia and the drivers licenses of other victims.

David Agee of the JCSO said Ramos admitted to stealing packages from porches and selling drugs. Ramos reportedly told the detectives, “Stealing things makes me feel good.”

Detectives recovered several items and packages that appear to be stolen and are trying to identify other victims. Ramos is being held in the Jefferson County jail on bonds totaling $46,000.00. Current charges are Receiving Stolen Property 1st degree bond $20,000.00, Receiving Stolen Property 3rd degree bond $5000.00, Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substances bond $10,000.00, Trafficking in Stolen Identities bond $10,000.00 and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia bond $1000.00.

Ramos may face additional charges when other victims are identified.