Theft
Theft is generally defined as the unlawful taking or disposition of movable property. Depending on the value of the property and whether a weapon was involved, it can be charged as a Misdemeanor or Felony.
Whether a felony or misdemeanor charge, you should take any theft charge seriously and work with an experienced criminal defense attorney to defend against the charges.
Felony theft charges are tiered based on the value of cash, property or services stolen:
- More than $1,000 and less than $7,000 is theft and a fifth-degree felony, punishable by up to 12 months in prison
- More than $7,000 and less than $150,000 is grand theft and a fourth-degree felony, punishable by up to 18 months in prison
- More than $150,000 and less than $750,000 is aggravated theft and a third-degree felony, punishable by up to 36 months in prison
- More than $750,000 and less than $1.5 million is aggravated theft and a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 8 years in prison
- More than $1.5 million is aggravated theft and a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 11 years in prison
Theft charges are tired based on the type of property stolen:
- Vehicle – a fourth-degree felony
- Dangerous Drugs — a fourth-degree felony, or a third-degree felony if defendant was previously convicted of a drug offense
- Firearm — third-degree felony, or first-degree felony if it was taken from a federally licensed firearms dealer.
Theft from a disabled or elderly individual are structured as such:
- More than $1,000 and less than $7,000, a fourth-degree felony
- More than $7,000 and less than $37,500, a third-degree felony
- More than $37,500 and less than $150,000, a second-degree felony
- More than $150,000, a first-degree felony
Regardless of how it is charged, you are facing a serious matter, which could negatively affect your life for years to come. Whether you are charged with embezzlement, a white collar crime, felony theft, or a shoplifting offense, contact Hayes Law today to schedule a case consultation.