Property Crimes 

Owning property is a fundamental right in the United States, and as such, the law protects citizens’ property rights. Property crimes involve illegal actions taken against someone else’s property. Under Michigan state law, there are several property crimes: theft, breaking, vandalism, and arson. The penalties for each type of crime vary depending on the severity of the offense.

Types of Property Crimes and Their Corresponding Penalties

Larceny

Theft is the unlawful taking of someone else’s personal property without consent. This includes theft of money, goods, or services. The punishment for theft ranges from a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail and a fine of up to $500 to a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

Breaking and Entering

Breaking and entering is the unlawful entry into someone else’s property to commit a crime. This can include burglary, which is the illegal entry into a building with the intent to commit a crime, or home invasion, which is the unlawful entry into a residence with the intent to commit a crime. The punishment for breaking and entering ranges from a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $ 500, to a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $ 5,000. However, if a death is involved during the break-in, the crime is elevated to homicide, increasing the punishment.

Vandalism

Vandalism is the willful destruction or damage of someone else’s property. The punishment for vandalism ranges from a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail and a fine of up to $500 to a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

Arson

Arson is the intentional burning of someone else’s property. The punishment for arson ranges from a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000 to a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. As with all other types of property crime, if the arson results in a death, the punishment will increase in severity, and the crime will be classified as a homicide.

Seeking Counsel for Property Crimes

The punishment for property crimes in Michigan can be harsh but they are designed to protect the rights of citizens and punish those who unlawfully take or damage someone else’s property. Property crimes are serious offenses and should be treated as such. If you have been charged with property crimes, you should seek counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney. Frances Murphy or Fran Murphy Law is an experienced personal injury and criminal defense lawyer who has successfully represented businesses and individuals within the Michigan State area. Fran will zealously represent you and ensure that your rights are protected. Fran Murphy Law is located in St Clair Shores, Michigan, and serves clients throughout Michigan. Contact Fran Murphy Law today for a consultation.

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State of Michigan Resource: Larceny

State of Michigan Resource: Arson