Penalties For Porch Piracy In Rockland County

During the holiday season, many less fortunate individuals feel serious financial pressure. While the wealthy splurge on gifts and treats, others must face the harsh realities of poverty. Christmas is a dark time for many people struggling with poverty, and some of these individuals may be driven to crime as a result. One of the most common theft-related offenses during the holiday season is “porch piracy.” What happens if police accuse you of being a porch pirate in Rockland County? How do you defend yourself?

Three Alleged Porch Pirates Arrested Near Rockland 

In December of 2024, it was reported that three alleged porch pirates had been taken into custody near Rockland County. These individuals were caught on video, and they reportedly entered an apartment building lobby before stealing various packages near the mail area.

All three defendants were charged with petit larceny, criminal possession of stolen property in the fifth degree, and possession of burglar’s tools. The latter charge suggests that the defendants forcibly entered the building in some way, possibly circumventing its security system.

The maximum sentence for possessing burglar’s tools in New York is one year in jail, and this is a Class A misdemeanor. Petit larceny is also a Class A misdemeanor with the same jail sentence, and it applies to theft of items worth less than $1,000. Finally, possession of stolen property in the fifth degree is another class A misdemeanor – implying a total maximum sentence of three years each for these three defendants.

Many states have passed bills that specifically target porch pirates. New York may make these changes in the future, but as of this writing, this offense is treated like any other type of theft. Future porch pirate laws in New York could elevate this offense to a felony, regardless of the value of stolen items.

Porch Piracy Is a Major Concern Over the Holidays 

During the winter holidays, many New Yorkers become increasingly wary of porch piracy. Various media sources have warned consumers about this threat, which is now more pronounced due to the rise in online shopping. Cyber Monday represents a particularly important concern for shoppers, as electronic items worth thousands of dollars may be lying out in the open after delivery. These items include iPhones, which many porch pirates intentionally target.

There is always an element of uncertainty when it comes to porch piracy penalties in New York. Since these penalties depend on the value of the items, there is no way of knowing how serious your penalties will be until you (or law enforcement) open the package. There could be a worthless trinket inside a small package – or there could be an iPhone worth well over $1,000.

Can a Defense Attorney in Rockland County Help Me Fight Theft Charges? 

If you have been accused of porch piracy, it makes sense to speak with an experienced New City theft attorney as soon as possible. Many states have taken a strict stance against porch piracy in recent years, and New York is no exception. Phillip J. Murphy, Attorney at Law has direct experience with theft-related offenses. Schedule your consultation today to get started with a defense strategy.

Source: 

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