Novi Times

State Sen. Jim Runestad (R-White Lake) recently reminded residents to remain vigilant to prevent mail and package theft, according to MISenate GOP.

Mail and package theft, often dubbed ‘porch piracy’, is a growing concern as Christmas approaches and residents order gifts, food and supplies online. Online ordering this year is at record highs due to the ongoing pandemic and residents increasingly opting to shop from home instead of at brick and mortar stores

“In two days it will be Black Friday — the start of the Christmas shopping rush and one of the busiest shopping days of the year — followed by an equally busy Cyber Monday!” said Runestad. “Due to some of the restrictions we are facing during the pandemic, online shopping is at record levels, which means there have been more packages arriving on our porches than ever before.

With more people ordering online than ever, incidents of porch piracy are also on the rise.

“Unfortunately, that also means more thieves are trying to take advantage of the situation to steal your goods, said Runestad. "I urge everyone to take some simple steps to safeguard their packages against so-called ‘porch pirates.’”

Runestad went on to advise that residents should plan to check their mailboxes regularly and try to collect their mail as close to the time of delivery as possible.

Reporting mail theft is is critical to deter incidents of porch piracy. Residents should contact the police immediately if they suspect their mail has been stolen.

In 2019, Runestad introduced Senate Bill 23, now Public Act 48 of 2019. The new legislation creates state penalties for mail theft, expanding options for prosecuting these types of crimes.

“This law went into effect last December” said Runestad. “It has helped provide peace of mind to consumers as the ability to prosecute and punish porch pirates has increased.”