Theft is a crime committed when a person takes property that belongs to someone else. The key elements of theft are dishonesty, appropriation of another’s property, and intent to deprive the owner permanently. The element of intent is the most complex part of theft cases as defendants often argue that they did not have the right to take the property or that they did not intend to keep it for long, for example, taking a car to sell parts or for a joyride and then returning it.
The law also considers the dollar value of the stolen property and the method of taking when deciding whether a theft is a misdemeanor or felony. Robbery is a form of theft that involves violence and threats, while carjacking is an example of armed robbery. Theft of high-value items such as jewelry or money from a bank is usually classified as a felony, while theft of items like tools or electronics is typically considered a misdemeanor.
Some states have merged larceny with general theft laws, while others have kept larceny as an independent offense. A criminal defense lawyer who specializes in Theft will be able to explain the differences between larceny and general theft as well as the different types of property that fall under both offenses. Theft is a serious crime that could lead to significant jail time depending on the severity of the offense. It is important to speak with a experienced criminal attorney immediately after an arrest in order to ensure that your rights are protected.
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