The last thing survivors of Hurricane Harvey should have to deal with are looters, which is exactly why Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo has expressed a zero tolerance policy toward criminals.
On Tuesday, Acevedo said Houston police have arrested 14 looters – and they will face harsher punishment under the law given the circumstances:
Burglarizing a home would normally bring a penalty of two to 20 years in prison, but now brings five years to life.
“This is the state of Texas. We are a welcoming city, but we are not going to tolerate people victimizing others,” Acevedo said.
He said he will push for the fullest prosecution possible for any crimes committed during such a sensitive time.
Avecedo said that Houston officers arrested a group of looters with guns who were robbing survivors Monday night, as well as three looters at a Game Stop.
If that’s not bad enough, members of the Black Lives Matter movement are encouraging looters on Twitter to target white people and Trump supporters:
Yet #BLM supporters encourage looting in #houston of only white own businesses and Trump supporters. Despicable. pic.twitter.com/wviLhiEZiN
— Red Raider (@Redraider007007) August 27, 2017
Hey @houstonpolice, I Know Your Busy Saving Lives But This Thug Is Looting #Houston. When You Get A Chance, Pay Him A Visit#HoustonStrong pic.twitter.com/zcGSxMcYFy
— DeplorableRāzərbak (@MediaJuggernaut) August 28, 2017
Because of the rampant looting, the city of Houston has instated a curfew from 12 a.m. to 5 a.m. that will remain in effect until further notice. But Acevedo has a warning for all would-be looters: “Don’t come to Houston because you’re going to be caught. That’s despicable behavior.”
Do you agree with Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo’s harsh punishment for looters? Share your comments below!