Theft Crimes

Theft cases are handled in a number of ways, which means that the charges an individual faces tend to vary as well.

Shoplifting and theft

Shoplifting and petty theft are often treated as misdemeanors. This changes, however, if there are prior convictions.

reductions

Petty theft or petty shoplifting charges can be reduced to violations. However, there are special procedures that need to be taken to make this happen.

deferred sentencing

If you are charged with misdemeanor petty theft or theft charges, you may be able to negotiate to have your sentence deferred and the charges dismissed. This is what generally happens under the community court program.

civic commitment

The criminal charges you face can also be dismissed, in the right circumstances, by negotiating a civil compromise. This can be done even when the prosecutor objects to the commitment, and does not require a deferred sentence or a plea agreement.

Felony charges for theft

Theft cases can be treated as felonies in several cases. As an example, if you commit a robbery inside a building, this can be treated as robbery. This happens if there is enough evidence that a plan to steal was formulated before entering the building. Theft, or robbery by force or threat, is another form of theft that can be treated as a felony.

grand robbery

When it comes to a grand theft, you can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor (a wobbler). Grand theft usually involves amounts greater than $950.