Talk about the seasonal things that make consumers go “Arrgh.” Incidents of porch piracy — the swiping of online ordered packages from area doorsteps — increase each holiday season, as thieves see greater opportunities in more active December deliveries. Pa. State Rep. Wendi Thomas, from Richboro, has proposed a no-nonsense solution, reported by Greg Barton for WDAC 94.5.

The crime may not be on the same level as a bank heist or corporate embezzlement, but the relative low value of the items taken doesn’t lessen its impact.

What thieves are missing in big-ticket hauls, they’re making up for in volume.

Nationwide, reports indicate that 36 percent of American online shoppers have been victimized. In 2021, that amounted to $210 million in losses.

Rep. Thomas’ bill levies tiered penalties based on value of the stolen mail and the recidivism rate of perpetrators:

• The initial incident is a summary offense if the merchandise’s value is less than $150
• For items more than $150 — or for the perpetrator’s second offense — the charge is a second-degree misdemeanor
• Third offenses, regardless of the package value, carry the charge of a third-degree felony, for which retribution can be as severe as a five-year stint in prison and a $15,000 fine

Consumer security firm ADT suggests that package recipients can thwart porch piracy by having items delivered to a workplace or an at-home, trusted neighbor. Additional solutions include technology investments for hardware like onsite cameras and recorders.

More on a proposed legislative solution to porch piracy is at WDAC 94.5.