On Cyber Monday, U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) announced bipartisan legislation aimed at combating the surge in package theft, unveiling the Porch Pirates Act during an event in Ridgewood. The bill would make stealing packages delivered by private carriers a federal crime, expanding protections that currently apply only to U.S. Postal Service deliveries.
Gottheimer noted that so far this year, an estimated 104 million packages have been stolen across the country, and nearly half of Americans report having been victims of porch piracy. More than 190,000 New Jersey residents had packages stolen in just three months last year.
“There’s a literal Grinch that tears through neighborhoods, stealing away Christmas presents and essentials from grandparents and children alike — right off their own front porch when a package arrives,” Gottheimer said. “The bipartisan action I’m announcing today will protect families under the same laws we already have for other types of mail, while streamlining the definition of porch piracy so there are no uncertainties delaying help. It shouldn’t matter who delivers your package. If you paid for it, you should receive it and get help when you don’t.”
Under the Porch Pirates Act, stealing packages delivered by private carriers such as UPS, Amazon, and FedEx would carry federal penalties, including fines and imprisonment of up to three, five or ten years depending on the value, method and circumstances of the theft. The bill would also give the FBI, Department of Justice and federal task forces authority to investigate these crimes and establish a national standard for defining package theft without preempting stricter state laws.
The legislation would also expand protections related to interstate commerce, ensuring that packages remain covered through the final delivery point — including a recipient’s porch — rather than only while in transit.
Gottheimer said he is also contacting national retail associations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Package Shippers Association to collaborate on additional strategies to deter package theft. He urged retailers to address why one in four families are not receiving refunds for stolen goods and to work toward solutions.
“We can’t let the holidays be snatched away from us in broad daylight by a bunch of porch pirates,” Gottheimer said. “We will fight to ensure gifts stay right where they belong: with the families who work hard to buy them… That is what our Jersey Values are about: protecting the people we cherish most.”
Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton joined Gottheimer at the announcement, along with Ridgewood Mayor Paul Vagianos and Ridgewood Police Chief Forest Lyons.
“Porch pirates thrive on opportunity, and I’m asking our residents to help take that opportunity away, especially during the delivery season,” Cureton said. “Stay vigilant, use secure delivery options, and report any suspicious activity to keep our community safe.”
