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Theft Crime Defense Attorney
Have You Been Accused of a Theft Crime in Hampshire, Massachusetts?
If you have been accused of a theft crime in Hampshire, Massachusetts, it is important to understand the potential penalties and defenses that may be available to you. A conviction for a theft crime can result in significant fines and jail time, as well as a criminal record that can impact your ability to find employment or housing.
Common Theft Charges In Massachusetts
Theft crimes encompass a wide range of criminal offenses, from shoplifting to armed robbery. The penalties for a theft crime depend on the value of the property stolen, as well as the type of offense committed. The following are some of the most common theft charges in Massachusetts:
Larceny:
Larceny is defined as the unlawful taking and carrying away of personal property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of that property. Larceny can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the value of the property stolen.
Shoplifting:
Shoplifting is a type of larceny that occurs when someone takes merchandise from a retail store without paying for it. Shoplifting is typically charged as a misdemeanor offense.
Burglary:
Burglary is defined as the unlawful breaking and entering of a building with the intent to commit a felony inside. Burglary can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances of the offense.
Armed robbery:
Armed robbery is a serious felony offense that occurs when someone uses a weapon to take personal property from another person by force. Robbery is punishable by up to life in prison.
Penalties For Theft Crimes In Massachusetts
The penalties for theft crimes in Massachusetts depend on the value of the property stolen and the type of offense committed. The following are some common penalties for theft crimes in Massachusetts:
Larceny:
Larceny of property valued at less than $250 is punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $500. Larceny of property valued at more than $250 is punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
Shoplifting:
Shoplifting of property valued at less than $100 is punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $200. Shoplifting of property valued at more than $100 is punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Burglary:
Burglary of a dwelling is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Burglary of a non-dwelling is punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
Armed robbery:
Armed robbery is punishable by up to life in prison.
Defenses To Theft Charges In Massachusetts
An experienced Hampshire MA theft crime defense attorney, Tom Kokonowski, can review the facts of your case and help you determine the best way to proceed. There may be several possible defenses available to you, depending on the circumstances of your case. The following are some common defenses to theft charges:
For example, if you were accused of shoplifting, it may be possible to argue that you did not intend to permanently deprive the store of the property. If you are facing charges for embezzlement, it may be possible to argue that you had the authority to use the funds in question.
Mistake of fact:
If you mistakenly believed that you were entitled to the property that you took, then you may have a defense to larceny charges. For example, if you took property from a store because you thought it was free, then you would have a mistake of fact defense.
Intoxication:
If you were intoxicated at the time of the offense, then you may have a defense to certain types of theft crimes, such as shoplifting. Intoxication is not a defense to all theft crimes, however.
Duress:
If you committed the offense because you were threatened with force or violence, then you may have a defense to armed robbery charges.
Contact Us
No matter what charges you are facing, it is important to consult with an experienced Hampshire MA theft crime defense attorney as soon as possible. Tom Kokonowski has been representing clients accused of theft crimes for over 25 years and will fight to protect your rights and freedom. Contact him today for a free consultation.
