Bill > HB143

This bill introduces a new criminal law provision in Maryland specifically targeting "porch piracy" - the theft of mail or packages from someone's property. The bill defines "mail or package" as any item delivered by the US Postal Service or a delivery service company. Under this legislation, a person commits a felony if they knowingly and without permission obtain or take control of a mail or package delivered to another person with the intent to deprive the owner of that item. If convicted, the offender can be sentenced to up to 5 years in prison. Additionally, as part of the sentencing, the court may impose restrictions on the convicted person, including prohibiting them from returning to the location of the theft, staying away from the victim's property, the victim's workplace, or any other location that the State's Attorney proves was targeted during the commission of the crime. The law is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and is designed to provide legal recourse and penalties for a growing problem of package theft.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0143?ys=2025RS