New Texas Law Makes Porch Pirates Face Hefty Sentences and Fines

Beginning September 1, 2019, in the State of Texas, porch pirates and other convicted mail thieves can be sentenced to anywhere from 6 months to 10 years in prison. 

Under House Bill (HB) 37, those convicted of this now-popular crime will not only spend time in prison but they will also be fined from $4,000 to $10,000. The stricter laws are to combat the growing trend of thieves simply walking off with items left on the porch for the residents of the home. In addition, the bill is for those who are convicted of stealing mail out of mailboxes, those stealing from more victims will receive a longer sentence and a larger fine. This includes items left by postal and other delivery services or left by the customer for pickup by the carrier.

Prior to the bill, mail theft was considered a misdemeanor under Texas law. Those who have targeted those disabled, or eldery may face additional time.

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