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Is Vehicle Theft a Felony in Colorado?

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04 January, 2023

The state of Colorado has the third highest rate of auto theft in the country. While extensive efforts are in place across the state to help combat this crime, it is still prevalent in many areas.

If you are arrested for this crime, you may wonder, “Is vehicle theft a felony in Colorado?”

This is a good question and one that does not come with a black-and-white answer. The charges and potential penalties you face for auto theft depend on several factors. Contact our car theft lawyers to learn more.

Colorado’s Laws on Auto Theft

In Colorado, auto theft is prosecuted as aggravated motor vehicle theft. If you are arrested for stealing a vehicle in the state, you can face first-degree or second-degree auto theft charges.

If you are wondering, what is the minimum sentence for grand theft auto in Colorado, you are in the right place.

First Degree Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft

You will face this charge if you knowingly steal a vehicle without authorization or use deception or threats. Additionally, you have:

  • Caused over $500 in property damage;
  • Caused bodily injury to someone;
  • Disguise or alter the appearance of the vehicle you steal;
  • Remove or alter the VIN;
  • Use different license plates on the vehicle;
  • Use the car for over 24 hours or take it out of the state for over 12 hours; or
  • Use the vehicle for committing a crime (traffic offenses excluded).

Second Degree Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft

You can face this charge if you knowingly steal a vehicle without authorization or use deception or threats. However, this charge applies if none of the listed elements above are involved.

Potential Penalties for Stealing a Vehicle in Colorado

First-degree theft of a motor vehicle in Colorado is always a felony charge.

Since it is a felony, it comes with a driver’s license revocation of one year. The fines are assessed, and the prison sentence depends on the value of the stolen vehicle.

The potential penalties for stealing a vehicle based on value include the following:

Class 5 Felony

If the vehicle’s value is under $20,000, it is charged as a Class 5 felony. If convicted, you face a potential penalty of one to three years in prison, a two-year mandatory parole term, and fines of $1,000 to $100,000.

Class 4 Felony

If the vehicle’s value is between $20,000 and $100,000, it is charged as a Class 4 felony. If convicted, the potential penalties for this crime include a prison sentence of two to six years with a mandatory three-year parole term and fines between $2,000 and $500,000.

Class 3 Felony

If the vehicle’s value is $100,000 or higher, it is charged as a Class 3 felony. If convicted, the potential penalties for this crime include a prison sentence of four to 12 years with a mandatory five-year parole term and fines between $3,000 and $750,000.

An important note Is that if you are convicted of auto theft a third time, regardless of the vehicle’s value, it will always be charged as a Class 3 felony. This crime carries a potential punishment of four to 12 years in jail with a mandatory parole term of five years. You will also face fines of $3,000 to $750,000.

The potential penalties for a conviction of aggravated motor vehicle theft in the second degree can be either a misdemeanor or felony based on the vehicle’s value.

Class 1 Misdemeanor

If the value of the vehicle stolen was less than $2,000, it is charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor. If convicted, it carries a jail sentence of up to 364 days and fines of up to $1,000.

Class 6 Felony

If the value of the vehicle stolen ranges from $2,000 to under $20,000, it is charged as a Class 6 felony. If convicted, it carries a jail sentence of one to one and a half years and a mandatory parole term of one year. You will also face fines of $1,000 to $100,000.

Class 5 Felony

If the vehicle’s value is more than $20,000, upon conviction, you face a prison sentence of one to three years and a mandatory parole term of two years. You will also face fines of $1,000 up to $100,000.

Common Questions about Auto Theft in Colorado

If you are facing auto theft charges in Colorado, you may have more questions. Some of the questions that may be asked and answers are found here.

What happens if someone steals your vehicle in Colorado?

If you discover your car is stolen, make sure you are somewhere safe. The thief may still be around, and they may have a weapon.

Once you are sure you are safe, contact the authorities. Let the police know your vehicle has been stolen and provide any information you can about it. Some details to include in your report include the following:

  • The make, model, and year of your stolen vehicle;
  • The appearance of your vehicle, including the color and identifying features (i.e., dents, damage, etc.);
  • License plate number; and
  • Vehicle identification number (VIN).

Once you contact the authorities, file a claim with your auto insurance provider. You may also want to contact the Colorado DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles).

If your vehicle was leased or financed, be sure to notify the leasing company or lender. For situations where you had personal property in the vehicle, you can file a claim with your renter’s insurance or homeowner’s insurance policy.

Sometimes, vehicle owners leave their credit and debit cards in their vehicles. If this is the case, be sure to notify your creditors so they can watch for unauthorized purchases or cancel the cards so they cannot be used.

What vehicles are most stolen in Colorado?

Some of the vehicles that are most reported stolen in Colorado include the following:

  • Honda Accords
  • GMC Pickups
  • Honda Civics
  • Chevy Pickups
  • Toyota Corollas
  • Dodge Pickups
  • Nissan Altima

In some situations, the vehicles are stolen for the parts, especially the catalytic converters.

What percentage of stolen cars are eventually recovered in Colorado?

From 2017 to July 2022, there have been arrests for just 10 percent of car thefts in the state of Colorado. This means that if your car is stolen, the possibility of recovery is minimal.

What to Do if You Are Arrested for Vehicle Theft in Colorado

If you have had questions like, “what is the difference between grand theft auto and auto theft,” you should have found the answers here. However, if you are in this situation, you may feel confused, overwhelmed, and even scared.

While this can be difficult, you must try to remain calm, take the right steps, and avoid some of the most common mistakes.

Do Not Argue with the Police or Engage in Extensive Conversations

When you are arrested, you may be tempted to tell your side of the story. This is not a good idea. Not only will it not work, but you may say something that the police can use against you.

Instead, provide basic information, such as your name and home address, and then invoke your right to remain silent. This will ensure you do not say something that may be used to get a conviction for the crime you have been charged with.

Contact an Attorney

You should not wait to contact an attorney. If you are charged with vehicle theft, you need someone to represent your interests and rights. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the sooner they can gather evidence for your case.

Avoid Posting About the Incident on Social Media

You may be tempted to share what happened on social media or even talk about it in the messenger app. This is also a bad idea. If found, anything you say here can be used against you. It may hurt your case and ability to minimize the charges you are facing.

Contact Our Legal Team for Help with Your Criminal Case

Knowing what to expect is a good idea if you are facing vehicle theft charges in Colorado. The information here provides a good overview of what penalties you may face if you are convicted.

If you have more questions about the situation, such as, “What level of felony is grand theft auto,” contact the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani. Our legal team can review the facts of your case and get to work right away to help reduce or eliminate the charges against you.

We are here to help and will provide you with the aggressive defense you need for your case. Contact us today to set up an initial consultation to discuss your situation.

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What Are Common Penalties for Theft in Denver?

Can I Be Searched for Drugs on Public Transportation?

What Are the Best Defenses to Theft Charges?

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27 December, 2022

Being charged with theft in Colorado comes with severe consequences if convicted. This is true regardless of whether or not the crime is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. A theft conviction can destroy your career and cause other unexpected consequences.

Conviction of a theft crime can have especially harsh consequences on someone’s life plan and affect their housing options, employment, the ability to start a business, school needs, and professional licensing.

In Colorado, theft crimes are also called “crimes of moral turpitude.” These types of crimes can stigmatize you, and unlike other criminal convictions, like possessing marijuana, theft-related charges negatively impact your personal reputation and character.

To many, theft is considered a more serious crime than others. This is true even if they carry the same potential punishment.

If you plead guilty to a theft crime, even a minor one like shoplifting, you need to seek the help of a legal professional. At the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, LLC, we can provide information and answers to any questions you have, such as:

  • What are the best defenses to theft charges?
  • How can I get a petty theft charge dismissed?
  • What evidence is needed to prove theft?
  • Can you be charged with theft if the item is returned?

We will provide you with the answers to any questions you have and help you build a defense against the charges you are facing. Here you can learn more about theft charges and theft defense strategies.

Understanding Theft Crime Charges in Colorado

Theft, also called larceny, is a term that includes many different criminal defenses. The basic elements of theft in Colorado include an action that is done to deprive someone permanently of an item or money.

The law specifically states the following:

That a defendant in the State of Colorado, at or about the date and place charged, knowingly, obtained, retained, or exercised control over anything of value of another, without authorization or by threat or deception and intended to deprive the other person permanently of the use or benefit of the thing of value. 

Theft vs. Robbery vs. Burglary Charges in Colorado

As mentioned above, theft in Colorado includes taking anything of value that belongs to someone else without consent from that person. Depending on the value of the stolen property, theft may be a petty offense, a misdemeanor, or even a felony.

If force, intimidation, or threats are involved in taking property from someone, it is considered a robbery. This is always charged as a felony in Colorado.

A burglary occurs if you enter a property wrongfully to steal something or commit another crime. It is always a felony.

The potential penalties for burglary, robbery, and theft are much more serious than you may expect. They often include several years in prison in Colorado, especially in situations where someone was harmed or if the goal was to obtain any controlled substance.

Potential Penalties for Colorado Theft Convictions

You can find details related to theft in Colorado in Title 18, Article 4 of the C.R.S. The value of the items stolen depends on the possible penalties that you will face and includes the following:

  • If the value of the items stolen is under $300, it is a petty offense in Colorado.
  • If the value of the items stolen is over $300, but under $2,000, it is charged as a misdemeanor.
  • If the value of the items stolen is over $2,000, it is charged as a felony.

While the penalties for a theft conviction start low, they increase quickly as the value of stolen items increases. If the stolen property is worth $1,000,000 or more, then a conviction can result in a prison sentence of 24 years (or more).

Misdemeanor Theft Penalties in Colorado

If you are facing misdemeanor theft charges, the potential penalties include the following:

  • Class 3 misdemeanor: For theft involving over $50 and under $300 worth of goods or merchandise, you can face six months in jail or a fine of $50 to $750.
  • Class 2 misdemeanor: For theft involving over $300 and under $750 worth of goods or merchandise, you can face three to 12 months in prison and fines of $250 to $1,000.
  • Class 1 misdemeanor: For theft involving over $750 and under $2,000, you can face between six and 18 months in jail and fines of $500 to $5,000.

The district attorney prosecuting your case may wish to make the “victim whole.” This means they recover compensation on their behalf. In these cases, you may be ordered to pay restitution. The amount you will be ordered to pay can vary from one case to another, but restitution is on top of additional fines you are issued.

Potential Defenses to Theft Charges in Colorado

The best defense for theft charges in Colorado depends on the arrest circumstances. However, some of the offenses that may be effective include the following:

  • The property belonged to you.
  • Someone gave you the property.
  • You were only borrowing the property.
  • The property was not worth as much as the prosecution is claiming.

Hiring an attorney is recommended in these situations since they can evaluate the charges you face and create a custom defense strategy. This is the best way to get the quality and effective defense you need in these situations.

Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney for Help with Your Criminal Theft Charges

If you are facing criminal theft charges, our criminal defense attorney at the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani is here to help. We can evaluate your case and help you recover the compensation you are entitled to.

Don’t wait to seek legal counsel as it can help you overcome the charges you are facing. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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What Are Common Penalties for Theft in Denver?

What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony?

What Are the Five Types of Theft in Colorado?

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20 December, 2022

In Colorado, theft is called a crime of moral turpitude. You can face theft charges for several different reasons and in several ways.

Theft convictions in the state will result in you having a permanent criminal record. This can impact your finances and your career. You must understand the potential theft charges you can face, which will help you avoid them.

If you are arrested for theft, you have legal options. We recommend contacting our legal team at the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, LLC, for assistance.

It is also important to note that the theft laws in Colorado cover many different offenses, including shoplifting, theft of services or property, theft by deception, embezzlement, extortion, and theft by receiving stolen goods or property. Here, you can learn more about these crimes and the potential penalties you will face if convicted.

Theft in Colorado Defined

The state of Colorado has a broad definition of theft. While it includes what is generally accepted as theft, like stealing money, vehicles, or property, it also includes the unlawful acquisition of any item of value by deception or threat or knowing that the property is stolen. For an act to be considered theft, the individual being charged with the crime (the defendant) must have the intention of depriving the owner of that property or the use of it permanently or demand that the rightful owner provide monetary compensation (or other compensation) to have it returned.

With this definition, theft includes receiving stolen property, shoplifting, extorting, embezzling, and stealing. According to the law, it is also illegal to intentionally misrepresent eligibility to receive public assistance or benefits.

Like in many other states, the law in Colorado has classified theft as a felony or misdemeanor based on the stolen item’s value. Here you can learn more about the different levels of theft as defined by Colorado Revised Statute 18-4-401.

Petty and Misdemeanor Theft

There are three different levels of petty and misdemeanor theft in Colorado. These include the following:

  • Petty Theft: This charge applies to stolen services or property worth less than $300 and carries potential maximum penalties of ten days in jail and fines of $300.
  • Class 2 Misdemeanor: Applies to stolen services or property valued from $300 to $1,000 and carries a potential maximum penalty of up to 120 days in jail and fines of $750.
  • Class 1 Misdemeanor: Applies to services or property valued at $1,000 but under $2,000 and carries a potential maximum penalty of up to 364 days in jail and fines of up to $1,000.

Grand or Felony Theft

Theft charges will become felonies if the stolen services or goods reach $2,000. There are five classifications of Grand or Felony theft in the state. Are you curious as to what the five types of theft are? If so, find the information here.

  1. Class 6 Felony: Applies to stolen services or property with a value of $2,000 to $5,000 and carries a maximum sentence of 18 months in prison and fines of up to $100,000.
  2. Class 5 Felony: Applies to stolen services or property with a value of $5,000 to $20,000 and carries a maximum penalty of up to three years in prison and fines of up to $100,000.
  3. Class 4 Felony: Applies to stolen services or property with a value of $20,000 to $100,000 and carries a maximum penalty of up to six years in prison and fines of up to $500,000.
  4. Class 3 Felony: Applies to stolen services or property with a value of $100,000 to $1,000,000 and carries a maximum penalty of up to 12 years in prison and fines of up to $750,000.
  5. Class 2 Felony: Applies to stolen services or property with a value of over $1,000,000 and carries a maximum penalty of up to 24 years in prison and fines of up to $1,000,000.

Prior Felony Offenders Face Enhanced Penalties

If someone is considered a habitual felon, which is someone who has been convicted of multiple felonies, then the maximum possible sentence is increased significantly. The specific sentence depends on the person’s prior convictions and the amount of time that has passed between each conviction.

Usually, someone who is a third-time felon will be punished with a sentence that is three times the maximum sentence (as described above).

Shoplifting Crimes and Convictions

Shoplifting is also considered theft in Colorado. The value of the product or item that a person conceals or shoplifts will determine the charges and potential penalties.

If someone is convicted of shoplifting within four years of their third felony theft that involves items taken from a store, they will receive the minimum sentence and not be considered eligible for a suspended sentence or probation.

Get Help with Your Colorado Theft Charges

You likely have questions if you are facing theft charges in Colorado. Common questions we get include:

  • Can you go to jail for petty theft?
  • Can I have my sentence reduced?
  • What is the punishment for theft?

Here you have a basic overview of the answers to these questions. This information will help you know what to expect if you ever face any of these crimes.

Also, if arrested for theft, be sure to contact our legal team at the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, LLC, for help and information. We can review the facts of your case and help you build a strong defense. Our goal is to help you achieve the best possible outcome for the charges you are facing.

While there are no guarantees when it comes to criminal cases involving theft, we have years of experience representing clients in similar situations. We can use our experience, expertise, and resources to help you with your situation.

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What Are the Common Penalties for Theft in Denver?

What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony

What Are Common Penalties for Theft in Denver?

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30 November, 2022

When most people think of theft, they envision a masked individual robbing a bank or jewels from a museum. While these are certainly types of theft, they are not the only ones.

Any time you take something without someone else’s permission – to deprive them of it – you are committing theft. This includes shoplifting, pickpocketing, and even some types of fraud.

Of course, not all acts of theft are equal. Some are much more serious than others and can result in felony charges. This is usually the case when violence is involved or when large sums of money or valuable property are taken.

Whatever the circumstances, if you are caught stealing in Denver, you can expect serious penalties. These may include jail time, probation, and restitution to the victim.

Read on for everything you need to know about theft penalties in Denver, Colorado, and how our team at The Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, LLC, can help you avoid them.

How is Theft Defined in Denver?

In Denver, Colorado, theft occurs when a person knowingly and unlawfully takes or exercises control over another person’s property with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive them of its use.

Colorado law recognizes several types of theft, including shoplifting, burglary, identity theft, and auto theft. The penalties for theft can vary depending on the value of the property stolen, the type of property stolen, and how it was taken. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, LLC, have experience handling all types of theft cases in Denver and can help you understand the charges against you.

What is the Difference Between Theft and Burglary?

Often, people use the terms “theft” and “burglary” interchangeably. However, there is a key distinction between the two crimes.

Generally speaking, burglary requires unlawful entry into a building with the intent to commit another crime. This could mean breaking into a home to steal valuables, or it could simply involve trespassing with the intent to commit an act of vandalism.

On the other hand, theft is taking something of value without the owner’s consent. This could involve shoplifting, pickpocketing, or even identity theft.

Misdemeanor Theft in Colorado

If caught stealing in Denver, your penalties will depend on the property value or cash you took. If the value is more than $50 but less than $2,000, it’s considered a misdemeanor crime. The sentence you receive will be based on the value of the item taken and your criminal history.

The penalties for misdemeanor theft offenses are as follows:

  • If the value of the goods stolen falls between $50 and $300, it is considered a Class 3 misdemeanor. This can result in up to 6 months in jail and fines of up to $750.
  • If the value of the goods stolen is between $300 and $750, it is classified as a Class 2 misdemeanor. This is punishable by up to one year in jail and fines of up to $1,000.
  • Finally, if the value of the goods stolen is between $750 and $2,000, it is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor. This can lead to up to 18 months in jail and fines of up to $5,000.

If you’re stuck, a Denver theft lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and the penalties you may face. Talk to our attorneys at The Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, LLC, to learn more about your options.

Felony Theft in Colorado

Felony theft charges in Colorado are serious business, and the penalties increase dramatically as the value of the goods or stolen cash increases.

  • If you’re convicted of stealing something worth between $2,000 and $5,000, you’re looking at a Class 6 felony, which is punishable by up to 18 months in prison and $100,000 in fines.
  • If the value of what you stole falls between $5,000 and $20,000, you face a Class 5 felony, with a possible prison sentence of three years and $100,000 in fines.
  • If the value stolen is between $20,000 and $100,000, you’re looking at a Class 4 felony and a potential prison sentence of six years.
  • If the value stolen tops out at more than $100,000 but is less than $1 million, you’re facing a Class 3 felony with a possible prison sentence of 12 years and fines of up to $750,000.
  • Finally, if the value stolen is more than $1 million, you’re looking at a Class 2 felony and a possible prison sentence of 24 years which may require fines of up to $1 million.

If you commit a felony theft offense, contact a Denver criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. They can help you navigate the criminal justice system and fight for a favorable outcome in your case.

Theft of a Firearm in Colorado

Colorado’s new firearm theft law is designed to help keep guns out of the hands of criminals. The law, which took effect in July 2020, reclassifies firearms theft committed during a second-degree burglary as a Class 3 felony.

As a Class 3 felony, judges can sentence convicted offenders to a fine of up to $750,000 and a prison sentence of four to 12 years. The bill was sponsored by Republicans and Democrats in the General Assembly, although it did not quite gain unanimous support.

Before this law took effect, firearms theft was classified as a Class 4 felony punishable by a prison sentence of two to six years.

In other words, the new law doubles the time offenders could spend behind bars. The hope is that by increasing the penalties for gun theft, criminals will think twice before breaking into homes and businesses to steal firearms.

Only time will tell if the new law effectively deters crime, but it is certainly a step in the right direction.

Auto Theft in Colorado

Auto theft is a big problem in Colorado. In fact, the state has ranked number one in the nation for auto theft rates. And in the first six months of 2022, the trend has continued, with a 17.2% increase in motor vehicle theft. That means that criminals have stolen 24,044 vehicles so far this year – 3,463 more than the same period last year.

As you can imagine, the penalties for auto theft are quite severe. Colorado takes auto theft seriously – first-degree aggravated automobile theft is always a felony.

Depending on the vehicle’s value and the defendant’s criminal history, penalties include 1-12 years in Colorado State Prison and $1,000-$750,000 in fines.

Second-degree aggravated automobile theft is almost always a felony, with 1-3 years in prison and $1,000-$100,000 in fines possible.

The only time it’s a misdemeanor is when the vehicle is worth less than $2,000 and the defendant has no more than one prior auto-theft conviction – in which case the penalties are up to 364 days in jail and $1,000 in fines.

Steven J. Pisani, LLC  is a Denver, Colorado-based law firm that provides high-quality legal representation to those accused of theft and other crimes. If you or someone you know has been charged with a theft crime, contact us today for a free consultation.

Contact a Denver Theft Lawyer Today!

If you’ve been charged with theft in Denver, you must understand the possible penalties you may face. The severity of the charge will depend on the value of the property stolen and any previous convictions on your record.

A first-time offender can expect to pay a fine and may also have to perform community service. However, more serious charges can result in jail time.

If you’re facing theft charges, speak to our team of Denver criminal defense lawyers. We have extensive experience in this area of the law and can help you get the best possible outcome in your case. Call us today at (303) 529-2825 to schedule a free consultation.

Understanding Theft Charges in Denver

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17 September, 2021

Theft crimes are extremely common in Denver. If you are charged with theft, there’s no question the situation can be confusing and intimidating. 

Colorado criminal law isn’t easy to understand. Because of that, one of the best things you can do is to hire a Denver criminal defense attorney. Our team at The Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani is ready to defend your case and help you understand the charges you are facing. 

While hiring an attorney to help with your case is a smart move, it’s also helpful to understand the different theft charges you may face in Denver. 

What Is Theft?

In the state of Colorado, theft is defined as taking and keeping something that is not yours when you do not receive permission from the item’s owner. 

However, theft often extends beyond this rather simple definition. In some situations, theft may also include individuals who did not actively steal something but provided aid to the individual who did. 

For example, if you attempt to sell a stolen item to a pawn show, and the pawnbroker knows the item is stolen but purchase it anyway, they can also be charged with theft. Also, if someone helps to dispose of a stolen item, they may be charged with theft. 

The deciding factor in this is knowing if the goods are stolen. Once you find out, then you are also considered liable if you do anything besides telling the police. 

What Is Considered Theft in Denver?

Denver theft laws include several types of illegal behavior. This includes everything from embezzling money from your employer to shoplifting at a retail establishment. 

All these crimes relate to one another because theft involves taking something of value that belongs to another person without permission and then hiding, keeping, or selling it so the owner cannot recover the item or items. 

Colorado theft laws are written using broad terms. They also involve several types of theft crimes:

  • Shoplifting: Theft from any business of an item. 
  • Larceny: Theft that occurs from a building. 
  • False Pretenses: This is theft that occurs due to deception.
  • Burglary: Theft from a residential property. 
  • Embezzlement: Any theft from your employer. 
  • Robbery: Theft that occurs from an individual. 

Colorado also has several specific laws that cover different illegal behaviors, such as:

  • Sale of something to cover up the theft
  • Stealing trade secrets
  • Illegal resale of lift tickets
  • Hiding goods in a store to steal later
  • Auto theft

Theft: Misdemeanors and Felonies 

If you are charged with any type of theft, you need to understand what the charges actually mean. 

The type of theft and worth of the item or items taken determine if you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony. 

Misdemeanor Theft Charges

Theft is considered a misdemeanor in some situations. These include:

  • Value of stolen goods is $750 or higher, but under $2,000, you are charged with a class 1 misdemeanor.
    • Fine of $500 to $5K and/or up to six months in jail. 
  • Value of stolen goods is $300 or higher, but under $750, you are charged with a class 2 misdemeanor
    • Fine of $250 to $1K and/or up to three months in jail.
  • Value of the stolen goods is $50 or higher, but under $300, you are charged with a class 3 misdemeanor
    • Fine of $50 to $750 (usually no jail time). 

If you steal something worth under $50, you are charged with class 1 petty theft. This charge comes with a fine of up to $500 and/or up to six months in jail

Felony Theft Charges 

Theft may also be charged as a felony. This occurs if the value of the item stolen is more than the limits mentioned above. Felony charges include:

  • Value of $1 million or higher, you are charged with a class 2 felony.
    • Fine of $5K to $1 million and/or eight to 24 years in jail.
  • Value of $100K or more but under $1 million, you are charged with a class 3 felony.
    • Fine of $3K to $750K and/or four to 12 years in jail. 
  • Value of $20K or more, but under $100K, you are charged with a class 4 felony.
    • Fine of $2K to $500K and/or two to six years in jail. 
  • Value of $5K or more, but under $20K, you are charged with a class 5 felony
    • Fine of $1K to $100K and/or one to three years in jail. 
  • Value of $2K or more but less than $5K you are charged with a class 6 felony
    • Fine of $1K to $100K and/or one year to 18 months in jail. 

If you are convicted of any felony theft charge for stealing from a location in four years, it means you receive a mandatory sentence of the minimum term allowed. Also, there will be no chance for a suspended sentence or parole in this situation. 

For situations where you steal from a person, instead of breaking into a business or home, you are charged with a class 5 felony automatically. The charge will be kept in place, no matter the value of the item or items you took. 

What Is the Maximum Possible Sentence for a Theft Charge in Denver? 

If you steal something that is worth $1 million or more, you may receive the maximum sentence for theft. This would be a class 2 felony charge and have a prison sentence of eight to 24 years. You would also be on parole for five years. 

Along with this hefty sentence, you will likely be ordered to pay a significant fine. It is at the court’s discretion to decide what to charge you with. 

Hire a Denver Criminal Defense Attorney for Help

If you have been charged with any type of theft crime in Denver, contact our team at the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani. You can call us at (303) 529-2242 to set up a free initial consultation to discuss your case.

Mother Arrested For Taking Teenage Daughter’s IPhone 6 Away

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23 July, 2020

A mother in Michigan was recently arrested for taking her daughter’s cell phone as a form of punishment.

The entire ordeal was one large miscommunication stemming from the mother’s ex-husband calling the police to tell them she had stolen an iPhone 6 from their daughter.

The father claimed to own the phone, but in actuality, it had been a Christmas gift from the man to the daughter. The mother, Ms. Jodie May, was picked up by police and taken to a holding cell. She was released on a $200 bond shortly after.

Ms. May was charged with misdemeanor larceny and larceny by conversion but maintained that she was just being “a concerned parent” and disciplining her daughter. Upon reviewing the case and speaking with Ms. May’s daughter, the prosecuting attorney dismissed the charges.

However, one is still left wondering how such a ridiculous case could have possibly gone as far as it did.

If you have a case that needs review and assistance, contact The Law Offices of Steven J Pisani, we specialize in DUI, traffic, and criminal defense. Call our Denver office today for a free consultation at 303-635-6768.

Newsweek, James Hetherington, September 21st, 2018

Link: https://www.newsweek.com/mother-arrested-taking-teenage-daughters-phone-away-punishment-1132426

The Juice To Be Let Loose? O.J. Simpson Faces Parole Hearing This Week In Nevada

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23 July, 2020

OJ Simpson is reportedly up for parole after nine years in prison for his role in a Las Vegas armed robbery. Simpson, who is 70 years old, could be out as soon as October 1, 2017 if the Nevada Board of Parole Commissioners deems him ready. According to close friend Tom Scotto, Simpson’s plan if granted parole is to either move back to Florida and live with Scotto, or to move to Sacramento and live with his sister, Shirley Baker.

Scotto claims that Simpson is “very positive” about his parole chances, and that the former NFL running back still has money despite the $2-3 million in legal fees he faced from the 2008 case.

OJ has also reportedly lost around 70 pounds since his first parole hearing in 2013, and has had no behavioral issues or writeups while incarcerated in the Las Vegas prison. He has also spent his time watching NFL games and coaching softball, and even started a Baptist church within the prison.

Hopefully Simpson’s good behavior continues outside of prison if he is granted parole, as his history with the law is not one to be proud of. If he sticks to playing golf and keeping his head low, maybe he can live out the rest of his life in peace.

That is not to say that Parole is easy. Mr. Simpson would still potentially be monitored, have regular check-ins and could go back to prison if he violates the terms of the parole.

The Law Offices of Steven J Pisani specialize in DUI, traffic, and criminal defense. Call our Denver office today for a free consultation at 303-635-6768.

USA Today Sports, Josh Peter, 7/17/2017

Link: https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2017/07/17/oj-simpson-faces-parole-hearing-thursday-nevada/483653001/

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