If you’ve been accused of theft, it’s likely to be because someone believes you have stolen something from them or from their property. Theft can take on many different forms and has numerous potential consequences as a result. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you could also find yourself facing different charges. If you are charged with theft as a misdemeanor, here is what you need to know.
What is a Theft Misdemeanor?
While theft is often prosecuted as a felony, it can also be charged as a misdemeanor. Theft is the unlawful taking of another person’s things with the intent to deprive them of it. A misdemeanor is a lesser type of crime, which can be charged at the state or federal level. There are a number of different theft charges, including petty theft, grand theft, and shoplifting. Theft charges are often leveled against minors, as they may not realize they are doing anything wrong or be aware of the potential consequences. However, it is also a common charge against adults. With so many different types of theft charges, it’s helpful to know what type you’re facing. Theft is the unlawful taking of another person’s property. The item must be valued at $950 or less for the charge to be a misdemeanor. Theft charges are often broken down into degrees, with the severity of the charge depending on the value of the stolen item.
What are the potential penalties for theft as a misdemeanor?
The penalties for theft as a misdemeanor will depend on the value of the item stolen. For items under $950, the convicted individual can face up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. For items between $950 and $99,999, the potential penalties may include up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $10,000. If the value of the stolen item is $100,000 or more, the individual can face up to 3 years in jail and fines up to $10,000. The penalties often increase if an individual was convicted of a felony in the past 10 years. If the stolen item was valued at $50,000 or more, the individual can face up to 10 years in jail and fines up to $25,000. If the item was valued at $100,000 or more, the individual can face up to 20 years in jail and fines up to $50,000.
Which Crimes Are Classified as Theft Misdemeanors?
There are a number of different theft crimes that can be charged as misdemeanors. These include shoplifting, petit theft, petty larceny, and even passing bad checks. Shoplifting is the most common type of misdemeanor theft charge. Shoplifting is the theft of goods from a store with a value under $950. Petit theft is the theft of items under $950 that are taken out of someone’s possession. Petit theft is often associated with the theft of a car, but can also apply if an individual steals items out of a car. Petty larceny is the taking of items valued under $950 from the person or property of another. Bad checks are also a type of misdemeanor theft charge, as the individual is taking money that isn’t theirs. Passing bad checks is when an individual writes a check knowing that there aren’t enough funds in their account to cover it.
Consequences of a Theft Misdemeanor Conviction
A misdemeanor theft conviction is not as serious as a felony theft charge, but it can still have serious consequences. A misdemeanor theft conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a criminal record. An individual convicted of misdemeanor theft can expect to pay a fine of up to $1,000. They may also have to perform community service, depending on the judge in their case. A misdemeanor theft charge could also lead to the individual being denied a job in the future. Employers often run background checks, and a misdemeanor theft conviction could come back to haunt someone.
A theft charge can come in many different forms and be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. It is important to speak with a defense attorney if you are facing misdemeanor theft charges, as they can help you understand the charges and penalties you are facing. Theft charges can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the circumstances, but they can have significant consequences.
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