What happened in Atlanta with the package theft incident?

A homeowner in southwest Atlanta is charged with aggravated assault after allegedly shooting two teens who were attempting to steal a package from his porch.

Can you shoot someone for stealing a package in Georgia?

No, Georgia law does not permit the use of deadly force to protect property in the same way one can protect their person.

Why do porch pirates target homes during the holidays?

Porch pirate activity increases during the holidays due to the surge in online orders and package deliveries to homes.

Home / Crime and Justice / Porch Pirate Shot: Homeowner Faces Charges in Package Theft

Porch Pirate Shot: Homeowner Faces Charges in Package Theft

18 Dec

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Summary

A homeowner faces charges after allegedly shooting two teens attempting to steal a package.
The incident occurred in southwest Atlanta during the busy holiday delivery season.
Legal experts note Georgia law prohibits using deadly force to protect property.

Porch Pirate Shot: Homeowner Faces Charges in Package Theft

Amidst the increased online shopping of the holiday season, package thefts are on the rise, leading some individuals to take drastic measures. In southwest Atlanta, a homeowner is now facing charges after allegedly shooting two teenagers he accused of attempting to steal his delivered package. The incident reportedly occurred shortly after the homeowner received a notification that his package had arrived.

Authorities state that the homeowner, identified as Rakim Bradford, is charged with two counts of aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during a felony. Accounts differ on how the shooting occurred, with the homeowner reportedly telling a friend his gun went off, while one of the teens told police Bradford shot through the door. This event underscores the escalating tensions surrounding porch piracy during peak delivery times.