DeSantis Proposes Tougher Laws Against Retail Theft in Florida

Clear Facts

• Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has proposed new legislation to intensify the crackdown on retail theft, in an effort to prevent crime waves seen in liberal states from infiltrating the Sunshine State.
• The proposed legislation includes a first-degree felony charge for individuals who commit theft with a firearm or have two or more prior convictions of retail theft, punishable by up to 30 years in prison and/or fines of up to $10,000.
• The legislation also addresses “porch piracy,” making it a third-degree felony to steal delivery packages from private properties if the package is valued between $40 and $100.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is taking a firm stance against retail theft, announcing new legislation designed to prevent the crime waves seen in liberal states from reaching Florida.

In 2022, retail theft resulted in a loss of $112 billion across the country, with significant increases in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, D. C. In contrast, Florida has seen a 30% decrease in shoplifting since DeSantis first assumed office, according to the Republican governor.

“If you commit a crime in Florida, you are going to be held accountable,” DeSantis said. “We will not tolerate retail crime, porch pirates and the lawlessness that they allow in California and New York.”

Under DeSantis’ proposal, committing theft with a firearm or having two or more prior convictions of retail theft would be classified as a first-degree felony. This charge carries a potential sentence of up to 30 years in prison and/or fines of up to $10,000.

The proposed legislation also targets criminals who use social media to incite others to participate in retail theft, making it a second-degree felony. Additionally, committing retail theft with five or more individuals will be considered a third-degree felony.

In Florida, a second-degree felony is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and/or fines up to $10,000, while a third-degree felony could result in up to five years in prison and/or fines of up to $5,000.

DeSantis’ legislation also addresses the issue of “porch piracy,” or the theft of delivery packages from private properties. If the stolen package is valued between $40 and $100, the crime will be classified as a third-degree felony.

Citing a national study by Forbes, DeSantis stated that around 41% of small business retailers reported an increase in the value of items stolen in 2023 compared to previous years.

He also noted that 75% of small business retailers reported monthly losses between $500 and $2,500 due to theft, while 85% of small business retailers said they experience theft at least once a year. Only 5% of small business retailers reported never experiencing theft.

“Cities and states that have effectively legalized shoplifting have hurt their local businesses and created a culture of lawlessness that has harmed the quality of life,” DeSantis wrote while announcing the legislation. “FL is a law-and-order state, and I look forward to working with the legislature to crack down on retail theft.”

The legislation has a strong chance of becoming law, given the Florida state legislature’s majority in both the State Senate and the State House of Representatives.

“Governor DeSantis continues to strengthen Florida laws to fight organized retail theft, cracking down on the kind of professional shoplifting that we’ve seen plague other states,” Glass said. “He is ensuring Florida will stay safe for families, prosperous for our businesses and a paradise for our visitors.”

Clear Thoughts (op-ed)

Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida once again demonstrates his commitment to law and order by introducing legislation to crack down on retail theft. This move showcases the stark contrast between conservative states like Florida and liberal states that have allowed crime to run rampant.

The proposed legislation is not only tough on criminals but also addresses the growing issue of “porch piracy.” It sends a clear message that Florida will not tolerate criminal behavior, and those who engage in it will face severe consequences.

While liberal states continue to suffer from skyrocketing crime rates and businesses struggle to survive, DeSantis is taking proactive measures to protect Floridians and their livelihoods. This legislation is yet another example of the benefits of strong conservative leadership, ensuring a safer and more prosperous future for the Sunshine State.

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