Theft of Packages Could Lead to a Lengthy Prison Sentence
More and more people are turning to the internet to do their shopping. Whether it’s shopping for new home furniture, kitchen utensils, or holiday gifts, online shopping has taken the retail world by storm. This has also led to an increase in theft crimes, as some people may drive around specifically looking for people who leave their delivered packages unattended.
New Jersey’s Law to Combat Theft Crimes
In an attempt to combat this, New Jersey has implemented the Defense Against Porch Pirates Act (Bill A3870). This law means that anyone charged with stealing packages from someone’s porch could be sentenced to five years in prison. The bill makes stealing delivered packages under $75,000 a third-degree crime. Previously, theft of delivered packages led to possible prison time between 3-5 years and fines up to $15,000. Before the new law, individuals who commit this crime would also only receive a disorderly persons charge for theft.
New Jersey hopes to reduce the number of “porch pirates,” especially as more and more residents rely on online shopping. An estimated $214.6 billion is spent per quarter on online shopping. Even more surprising is the fact that as many as 14% of Americans claim that they have had a package stolen. Experts predict that stolen packages cost consumers and retailers as much as $5.4 billion each year. The bill’s creators believe that porch piracy is the same as breaking into someone’s home and stealing their belongings.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help You Defend Against Theft Charges in New Jersey
If you’re facing theft charges in New Jersey, you’re going to understandably be worried about the consequences you may face, including how they will affect your freedom. By hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer, you will not only have someone available to advocate for your rights but work with you to develop the best defense.
Possible defenses to theft crimes in New Jersey may include:
- Being misidentified by an eyewitness
- Mistaking the package for your own
- Lack of intention to steal the package and/or planned on returning it to its rightful owner
With the new laws, it’s also best to avoid the temptations of porch piracy. If you find yourself in legal trouble this year for shoplifting or porch piracy, contact a criminal defense lawyer in Cherry Hill, NJ as soon as possible.
Contact an Experienced Cherry Hill Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Theft Charges in New Jersey
Were you arrested or charged with theft in Cherry Hill, New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The attorneys at Gelman Law, LLC have successfully represented clients charged with theft in Moorestown, Medford, Mt. Laurel, Cherry Hill, and throughout New Jersey. Call 856-861-4236 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 850 Rt 70 West Cherry Hill, NJ 08002.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
Disorderly conduct consists of any improper behavior such as fighting, threats of violence, or creating a dangerous atmosphere.
