Shoplifting, embezzlement and robbery are all different theft crimes. People who seek to enrich themselves by misappropriating the resources of others may face criminal charges because of their actions. Plenty of innocent people also get accused of theft due to misunderstandings or cases of mistaken identity.
Frequently, those facing theft offenses without significant aggravating factors, such as the use of a weapon or a home invasion, might expect to face misdemeanor charges. However, the state can pursue felony theft charges in specific scenarios.
What circumstances may allow prosecutors to pursue felony theft charges?
The value of assets is a main consideration
Frequently, property value determines the severity of the charges brought. The more valuable the property is, the more serious the charges and the potential penalties.
Once the total value of misappropriated resources reaches $1,000, state prosecutors can pursue felony charges. There are different classes of felony theft charges, and the severity of the offense goes up from the Class D felony pursued when the misappropriated assets are worth $1,000.
In some cases, the theft of specific types of property could also lead to felony theft charges. The theft of a firearm, regardless of its value, is likely to lead to a felony charge, for example. Regardless of whether a defendant faces misdemeanor or felony theft charges, they could be at risk of jail time, financial penalties and a criminal record.
Retaining the services of a criminal defense attorney and reviewing a situation leading to pending charges can help defendants plan a reasonable criminal defense strategy. There may be several different means of limiting the aftermath of pending theft charges depending on the circumstances.