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There are many types of theft charges, and they all differ in how much jail time they carry. The difference could mean a change in how you are treated in your criminal case, so it is essential to be aware of what types of thefts there are. The severity of your crime can play a significant role in whether or not you will face jail time.
1. Petty Theft
Petty theft, or petty larceny, is a misdemeanor-level crime. It is when someone steals an item worth less than $500. If someone steals something worth $500 or more or has previously been convicted of this type of crime, they can be charged with grand theft.
2. Shoplifting
When someone steals something from a store, they are considered shoplifting. One of the most common types of shoplifting is “lift and run,” when someone takes an item from a store without paying for it. If the stolen product was worth $50 or more, there is a possibility of a felony charge.
In case you are charged with this, find theft crimes defense lawyer who can help you to end up with lesser charges of petty theft or even no charges levied against you.
3. Embezzlement
A person who is convicted of embezzlement commits a felony-level crime. Embezzlement is when a person steals from their employer and diverts the money to their personal use, usually by withdrawing it from an account.
4. Theft of Property
If someone is caught stealing property worth more than $50, the charge could result in a felony. The punishment for this type of theft offense depends on how much money was stolen, whether or not the person stole from someone else, how many items were stolen, and how easily identifiable they were as stolen goods.
5. Bail Jumping
Bail jumping is when someone jumps bail, meaning they skip out of jail on bond. This type of crime is considered a felony and carries different penalties, depending on the case.
6. Grand Larceny
If someone steals an item worth $500 or more, they can be charged with grand larceny or grand theft. To be convicted of grand theft, the person must have taken two or more items worth $500 or more at one time, and the offense must have been committed to stealing them.
7. Auto Theft
It is considered auto theft if someone steals an item from someone else’s car. There are different levels of auto theft, depending on the item’s value and if it was ever reported as stolen. For example, it is considered a misdemeanor if someone steals a tablet worth less than $500.
8. Forgery
According to the law, forgery is a crime that involves creating counterfeit documents by using natural items. It is considered a felony if the value of the forged items is less than $10,000 and carries three years or more in prison.
9. Pawning
Pawning is when someone sells a possession, usually an item of fine jewelry or an expensive automobile, for less than the item’s value. If a person wants to pawn something of lesser importance but contains valuable parts that are sold separately, this is considered a felony.
10. Counterfeiting
When someone takes an original product and copies it to sell as the original product is considered counterfeit. If a person takes more than $1,000 worth of property and then sells them as their own, this type of crime is considered felony embezzlement. It is a felony that carries up to four years in prison.
Seek Legal Representation
When it comes to the different types of theft charges, those charged with a crime should be aware of the severity of the costs. Knowing that you are not alone and other people have been in your position is essential. You deserve a fair trial, so take advantage of your right to legal counsel and hire an attorney as soon as possible.
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