Louisville police working to protect flood-damaged homes from looters

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The Louisville Metro Police Department is watching for potential looters who may try to target homes damaged by the recent flooding.

LMPD Chief Paul Humphrey warned anyone tempted to steal from flood victims will face harsh penalties for looting.

"When a state of emergency is declared for something like this, there are actually increased penalties for those types of crimes," Humphrey said Wednesday. "So I want to make it clear to people: Do not take advantage of people who have had their properties damaged or have had to vacate their homes because you will get increased penalties when we catch you."

Humphrey said LMPD hasn't yet had any reports of flooded homes being targeted by thieves.

More Top Stories:

19-year-old accused of killing his brother in double shooting in New Albany

Louisville 'ahead of schedule' for flood cleanup with Derby events around the corner

City wants plan to preserve façade of historic Louisville church damaged by fire

2 Louisville families told to abandon homes sliding into Harrods Creek after recent flooding