Posting Videos Of Alleged Package Thieves Could Be ‘Violation’ Of Their Privacy: Quebec Police

Quebec’s provincial police force, The Sûreté du Québec, has cautioned residents against sharing images or videos of porch thieves, also known as ‘pirates,’ as it could potentially infringe on their privacy. This warning extends to Canadian police, emphasizing concerns over privacy violations.

The advisory from The Sûreté du Québec has faced widespread criticism from the local community, sparking controversy online. Montreal West councilor Lauren Small-Pennefather, responsible for public security, acknowledged the recurrent issue of package theft outside homes, particularly during the holiday season. She highlighted the evolving tactics of porch pirates, noting that some are becoming more sophisticated in their thievery methods.

In a video statement, communications officer Lt. Benoit Richard stressed that residents should not independently share images and videos that could serve as evidence but should instead submit them to the police for proper handling. Lt. Richard emphasized the legal principle of presumption of innocence in Canada, cautioning against potential privacy violations.

“You cannot post the images yourself because you have to remember, in Canada, we have a presumption of innocence, and posting that picture could be a violation of private life,” Lt. Richard stated. He urged individuals to report suspicions to the police, allowing for a thorough investigation leading to legal action.

Despite the police’s intentions, the warning has faced significant backlash online, with some questioning its implications. One user raised concerns about the perceived intention to conceal crime, questioning the legal validity of the advisory. Another commenter argued that porch thieves forfeit their privacy when caught on camera, asserting the right to share such evidence. Additionally, a user emphasized the clear criminal act of stealing a package, expressing skepticism about the need for qualifiers like “allegedly.”

The controversy surrounding the police advisory underscores the complex intersection of privacy rights and the public’s desire to combat porch theft, prompting a broader discussion on the appropriate balance between these concerns.

Parvasi Media Group