Police in Detroit are looking for the woman reportedly stealing packages from porches shortly after they are being delivered. What may seem like a simple case of theft, which is typically handled at the state level, may also be considered a federal offense. It all comes down to the details of the case.
According to a recently published news article, a woman has been caught on video walking up to peoples’ porches and taking their packages. Victims say they believe she follows mail carriers around in a U-Haul truck, watching and waiting for the mail to be delivered. They have shared their videos with the public and police and hope this individual stops or is arrested.
Only time will tell if they find and charge the person believed responsible for the package theft. If caught, charged and convicted, this individual could face time behind bars and significant fines. The length of incarceration and the fine amount will depend on whether she is charged at the federal level. It is a federal offense to steal mail or packages delivered by the U.S. Postal Service.
Fighting federal charges is not the same as addressing those filed at the state level. The stakes are higher and the process more complex. Any Detroit residents who are charged with a federal offense, whether it is for stealing mail or any other crime, can help themselves and their case by turning to an attorney who specifically handles federal cases. With the right assistance, one can fight for case dismissal or, at least, seek to minimize any consequences that may accompany a conviction.
