Theft crimes are prosecuted in various ways, depending on the severity of the offense and other factors. According to Michigan State Laws, there are three main types of theft crimes: larceny, embezzlement, and robbery.
The Different Types of Theft Crimes
Larceny is the most common type of theft crime. It involves taking someone else’s property without their consent and with the intent to deprive them of it permanently. Embezzlement is similar to larceny, but it occurs when someone entrusted with another person’s property illegally takes that property for their own use. Robbery is the most severe type of theft crime and involves using force or threats to take someone else’s property.
What are the Penalties for Each Type of Theft Crime
The State of Michigan prosecutes each type of theft crime differently. The penalties for each crime vary based on the value of the stolen property, whether the thief has a prior criminal record, and other factors.
How the Penalties Break down
Theft of property with a value of less than $200 is considered a misdemeanor crime that can lead to jail time and a fine. If the thief has a prior conviction for theft, the punishment can be more severe, including up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $1,000.
Theft of property with a value between $200 and $1,000 is also a misdemeanor crime. The punishment for this crime can include up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000. If the thief has a prior conviction for theft, the punishment increases to up to two years in prison and/or a fine of $5,000.
Theft of property that is worth between $1,000 and $20,000 is a felony. The thief can go to prison for up to four years and they might have to pay a fine of $5,000. If the thief has been convicted of theft before, they might go to prison for up to 10 years and have to pay a fine of up to $15,000.
If someone steals something worth between $20,000 and $100,000, it is a felony. This crime is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $15,000. If the thief has been convicted of theft before, the punishment increases to up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $30,000.
Theft of property worth over $100,000 is a felony that can result in up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $30,000. If the thief has a prior conviction for theft, the penalty increases to up to life in prison and a fine of $50,000.
There are also harsher penalties for stealing certain things. For example, if someone steals a gun, they can go to prison for up to 5 years and be fined up to $2,500. If someone steals a car, they can go to prison for up to 5 years and be fined up to $10,000. If someone is injured or dies because of theft, the thief will be punished more severely and may get convicted of homicide instead.
What You Should Do When Charged With Theft Crime in St Clair Shores
If you have been charged with a theft crime, it is important to seek legal counsel immediately. An experienced criminal defense lawyer such as Fran Murphy Law will be able to advise you on the best course of action and help you navigate the criminal justice system.
Fran Murphy Law will work with you to develop a strong defense strategy and gather evidence to support your case. In some cases, it may be possible to have the charges against you dismissed or reduced. If you are convicted of a theft crime, Fran Murphy Law 248-763-4111 will advocate for a lenient sentence.