Proposed RI Law Would Crack Down On Porch Pirates

PROVIDENCE, RI — A North Providence lawmaker is taking aim at so-called "porch pirates" — thieves who target packages left on doorsteps and porches. Represntative William O'Brien is seeking to impose stiffer penalties, such as seizing the vehicles used in committing the crime,

“It is always awful to see the news reports, especially during the holidays, of heartless grinches stealing people’s packages right from their front porches," the North Providence Democrat said. "This is an intolerable crime and criminals will continue this practice until they are sufficiently stopped by the law with severe penalties."

If passed, the bill will increase the penalty for those convicted of stealing people's packages. The money generated by seizing the vehicles used during the theft would go to the Rhode Island Veterans Home.

"As a member of the House Finance Committee, I have had a front-row seat to the financial problems arising in the Veterans Home," O'Brien continued. "Our veterans deserve much better and I feel that this would be an innovative way to support our aging heroes and veterans. If someone risks losing their car to steal others’ packages, I think it’s appropriate for the money that is generated to be appropriated to the Veterans Home."

O'Brien plans to introduce the bill during the upcoming legislative session, which begins in January.

Earlier this week, Providence police arrested two people accused of stealing package after package from homes in a neighborhood, finding numerous boxes and packages in their truck.