DeSantis signs bill to combat retail theft, porch piracy in Florida

STUART, Fla. – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis spoke at a press conference in Stuart Tuesday where he signed a bill aimed at tackling the surge in retail theft, porch piracy and social media-driven looting incidents.

House Bill 549 introduces stricter penalties for offenders engaging in such criminal activities.

Retail theft has become a significant issue across the nation, intensified by social media-organized looting incidents and resulting in substantial losses for retailers amounting to $112 billion in 2022 alone, according to DeSantis.

Notably, jurisdictions like New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C., have experienced sharp increases in theft, a news release from the governor’s office stated.

However, DeSantis confirmed since he assumed office, Florida has witnessed a notable 30 percent decrease in shoplifting incidents.

DeSantis emphasized Florida’s determination to distinguish itself from lawless areas, asserting that thieves will be apprehended and prosecuted.

“Florida is taking another step to distinguish ourselves from lawless jurisdictions and keep our residents and businesses safe,” he said. “If you steal in Florida, we will catch you and we will prosecute you.”

Attorney General Ashley Moody echoed his sentiment at the press conference, commending the legislation as a testament to Florida’s commitment to combating organized retail theft and ensuring the safety of its residents and businesses.

“Florida is a law-and-order state, and our policies combating organized retail theft are another shining example of how we are leading the nation,” said Moody. “Grateful for Governor DeSantis signing this important piece of legislation into law, as well as for the work of Rep. Rommel and Sen. Trumbull this Session to keep building a stronger, safer Florida.”

HB 549 introduces several key provisions to address these issues, which you can read here:

• Retail theft committed by five or more individuals becomes a third-degree felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison.
• If social media is used to incite others to participate in retail theft involving five or more individuals, it escalates to a second-degree felony, carrying a maximum penalty of 15 years’ imprisonment.
• Retail theft involving a firearm or multiple prior convictions is classified as a first-degree felony, with a maximum sentence of 30 years.
• The window for charging multiple retail thefts as a felony is extended to 120 days, up from 30 days.

Furthermore, the bill also increases penalties for porch piracy:

• Theft of property valued under $40 is considered a first-degree misdemeanor.
• Subsequent violations escalate to a third-degree felony.
• Theft of property valued at $40 or more is classified as a third-degree felony.

With HB 549, Florida reinforces its commitment to maintaining law and order, ensuring the safety of its citizens and safeguarding businesses from the detrimental effects of theft and criminal activity.