Lower Bucks Today

Senator Frank Farry and several Pennsylvania State Representatives have introduced a legislative package aimed at addressing rising crime rates in the state, particularly around Philadelphia. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Northampton Police Department.

"As society evolves, so do the crimes happening in our communities," stated Senator Farry. "We want to ensure that our law enforcement and prosecutors have the right tools to be able to properly charge these crimes and ultimately lead to the convictions of criminals who are causing chaos in our community, harming our residents and disrupting their daily lives."

The event was attended by local law enforcement leaders, including Dan Friel, Chief of Police in Warrington Township; Bill McVey, Director of Public Safety Bensalem Township Police Department; Fred Harran, Sheriff of Bucks County; and representatives from the State Troopers Association.

Chief Friel highlighted a significant increase in certain crimes within Warrington Township over the past year. Theft of catalytic converters has risen by 85%, while firearm offenses have increased by 133%. These crimes are often committed by individuals from outside the area.

The proposed crime package includes six bills. One bill would enforce mandatory jail time for illegal possession of firearms, with escalating penalties for repeat offenders. Another bill seeks to impose specific penalties for mail thefts, with harsher punishments for repeat offenders.

Further legislation aims to increase penalties for gun store robberies and street racing violations. Additionally, measures are proposed to curb catalytic converter thefts and hold rioters accountable for violence against police officers.