A holiday reminder: Porch piracy could carry a felony charge under Texas law
As holiday deliveries ramp up, package thefts are keeping Texas police busy.
In Fort Worth, a man wearing a Dallas Cowboys jersey was recently caught on home surveillance video grabbing a box off a porch seconds after an Amazon driver walked away.
Police said the suspect didn’t even wait for the driver to clear the path before sprinting to a waiting SUV.
The bold theft has investigators urging residents to stay alert, especially as online shopping surges this season.
Porch piracy may seem like a petty crime, but under Texas law, it can carry serious penalties.
Here’s what to know:
What exactly is a porch pirate under Texas law?
A “porch pirate” is someone who steals packages or mail from another person’s doorstep or mailbox.
According to Irving law firm Roland Jeter Law, Texas considers this a form of mail theft under House Bill 37, which became law in 2019.
The law classifies package theft as a state crime and allows prosecutors to pursue felony charges depending on how many addresses the thief targets and who the victims are.
Before HB 37, these cases were often treated as minor property thefts under Texas Penal Code 31.03.
What are the penalties for porch piracy in Texas?
Under Texas Penal Code 31.20, taking mail or packages from another person’s porch or mailbox without permission could be a felony.
The punishment depends on the scale of the theft:
- If the thief stole packages from one to nine addresses: Class A misdemeanor, up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
- 10–29 addresses: State jail felony, 180 days to two years in jail and up to a $10,000 fine.
- 30 or more addresses: Third-degree felony, two to ten years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.
If the thief uses stolen mail to commit fraud or steal personal information, penalties can increase to a second or first-degree felony, punishable by 20 years to life in prison, according to Varghese Summersett Law in Fort Worth.
Are there harsher penalties for stealing from the elderly or disabled?
Yes. If someone knowingly steals mail or packages from an elderly or disabled person, Texas law allows prosecutors to raise the charge to the next higher level, according to Roland Jeter Law.
For example, a theft that would normally be a Class A misdemeanor could become a state jail felony if the victims are in an assisted living facility or known to be disabled.
What should I do if my package is stolen?
If you notice a missing package, contact the seller first to check if it was insured. Companies like UPS, FedEx, and DHL all offer lost package claim services.
If that doesn’t help, reach out to the carrier. Even when an item isn’t insured, most private carriers provide limited coverage, usually up to $100.
Lastly, report the theft to police, especially if you or your neighbors have security footage. Fort Worth police recommend calling the department’s non-emergency number if you believe a crime occurred.
How can I prevent porch thefts?
Experts recommend several ways to protect deliveries:
- Have packages sent to a secure location, such as an Amazon Locker, UPS store, or work address.
- Require a signature for delivery to prevent unattended drop-offs.
- Install a doorbell camera or use a package guard that alerts you when a box is dropped off.
- Ask a neighbor to collect your package if you’re not home.
Law enforcement agencies say porch piracy spikes during the holidays, when deliveries are more frequent and homes are decorated, making it easier for thieves to blend in.
This story was originally published December 8, 2025 at 4:51 PM.
