The increasing popularity of online shopping has led to an increase in package theft, also commonly known as "porch piracy" — the taking of someone else's delivered packages. The Texas state legislature has taken steps to discourage the crime of package theft, amending Section 1, Chapter 31 of the Texas Penal Code by adding section 31.20 to increase potential criminal charges depending on the number of items stolen. For example, stealing up to 10 packages or pieces of mail is a state jail felony that carries the potential of a fine up to $10,000 and between 180 days and two years of jail time. Stealing 50 or more pieces of mail could result in a second-degree felony charge that can carry a fine of up to $10,000 and between 2 and 20 years of jail time. Read more about avoiding package theft charges in Texas.