After Sandy, New York City Council Plan Disaster Crime Bill

New York City lawmakers are looking to crack down on criminals who exploit disasters to enrich themselves through frauds, burglary or other schemes.

City Council Speaker Christine Quinn and several colleagues said Monday they planned to introduce a proposal on the subject soon.

It’s a response to concerns about crime after Superstorm Sandy.

City police said overall crime decreased in the early aftermath of the storm. But over the months, there have been some reports of looting of storm-damaged homes, thefts of relief supplies and repair and rental scams in and around the city.

The details of the proposal haven’t been cemented yet. They could include stiffer sentences for thefts, vandalism and frauds that exploit a state of emergency.

There also could be new provisions for seeking fines from perpetrators.