Posted: | December 20, 2022 03:06 PM |
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From: | Representative Kristin Marcell and Rep. Kathleen C. Tomlinson |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Theft of Mail (Former HB 1051) |
We will be introducing former House Bill 1051, legislation to create a separate offense for theft of mail. During the COVID 19 pandemic, home delivery of goods increased and continues to be a popular method of receiving consumer goods. Unfortunately, package theft continues to run rampant along with the popularity of these home delivery services. The proposed legislation provides that if a person takes mail of another person with the intent to deprive them of it, the person would commit a criminal offense. “Mail" is a letter, package, bag or item of value sent or delivered through a private or commercial interstate carrier, including, but not limited to, the United States Postal Service, FedEx Corporation and United Parcel Service. Theft of mail is currently charged under other theft offenses based solely on the value of the item taken. Our legislation would implement specific penalties for theft of mail, which includes a package, bag or letter. The grading of this offense would increase if the person has prior convictions for theft of mail. Grading: (i) Summary offense if the offense is a first offense and the value of the merchandise is less than $150. (ii) Misdemeanor of the second degree if the offense is a second offense and the value of the merchandise is less than $150. (iii) Misdemeanor of the first degree if the offense is a first or second offense and the value of the merchandise is $150 or more. (iv) Felony of the third degree if the offense is a third or subsequent offense, regardless of the value of the merchandise. (v) Felony of the third degree if the amount involved exceeds $1,000. Please join us in cosponsoring this bill that will help protect consumers from porch pirates. |
Introduced as HB696