Residents in Canada have been cautioned by police not to upload images or footage of porch thieves or “pirates” online, as this may infringe on their right to privacy.
Jerrymusa.com reports that the Sûreté du Québec, the provincial police force of Quebec, has issued the warning, which has drawn harsh criticism from residents online.
Parcels are Regularly Stolen from Homes
The public security committee member for Montreal West, Lauren Small-Pennefather, stated that “parcels are routinely taken from outside of residences, particularly during the holidays.
“It’s something we have to deal with every day. When they see a package being dropped off, people who are following the cars go and pick it up if the recipient doesn’t come to the door to pick it up, the person added.”
In addition, Small-Pennefather stated that porch pirates are becoming more cunning in their methods of committing thievery.
The Public is Advised to Turn in Evidence
Communications officer Lt. Benoit Richard issued a warning in a video statement, stating that “people must turn in any photos or recordings that could be used as evidence and cannot distribute them on their own.
“You must keep in mind that sharing the pictures could violate someone’s right to privacy in Canada, where there is a presumption of innocence. For this reason, you are unable to post the images yourself.
“If you have any evidence that someone may have stolen something, contact the police and provide them with the evidence.”