Is stealing Amazon packages a federal crime?

In the U.S. it is a federal crime to tamper with the mail. Stealing a porch package is considered mail theft and believe it or not, you can face either federal or state charges. If you are charged with a federal crime, you could face up to five years in jail.

Is stealing a package a federal crime?

In short, yes. The United States Postal Service is a federal agency. Because of that, the law categorizes mail theft as a federal offense. Even though it is a “light” crime, any federal offense may result in time in a federal prison.

What happens if you steal Amazon package?

Amazon covers most stolen packages through its “A-to-Z” Guarantee Protection. But if you’ve waited two or more business days for a response or the seller is uncooperative, you can file a claim with Amazon and they’ll likely issue a refund. In many cases, retailers will quickly agree to send you a replacement item.

Is it a federal offense to open someone else’s Amazon package?

Grand larceny in the first degree, a B felony, is punishable by up to 8⅓ to 25 years in prison in addition to fines and restitution. Under the federal penal code, “Theft or Receipt of Stolen Mail Matter” is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison, in addition to a fine.

What kind of crime is stealing packages?

Stealing a package is punishable by a misdemeanor, which carries a maximum sentence of one year in county jail. Jones’ bill would increase the amount of possible incarceration.

Is tampering with packages a federal offense?

1 attorney answer USPS is a federal government entity. The federal government makes tampering with the mail while the mail is in the government’s care a federal criminal offense.

What happens if you get caught stealing someone’s package?

In California, mail theft is a public offense punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and a fine to be determined by the court judge. You may be required to pay victim restitution in an amount equal to or higher than the value of the stolen items, as well.