Greeley Theft Crimes Lawyers
Being arrested and charged with theft is a serious matter in Colorado. Whether you are facing a shoplifting misdemeanor charge or a more severe theft-related felony, you are at risk of criminal penalties and the collateral consequences of having a theft conviction on your record.
Aside from the criminal penalties, theft convictions are associated with dishonesty and untrustworthiness; the perception of these qualities can make future employment, professional licenses, and educational loans more difficult. Your criminal record can be accessed online by prospective employers, state licensing agencies, and anyone who cares to investigate your background.
Fighting back against theft charges is vital, and the most productive way to do that is with the help of an experienced legal professional. At Peek Goldstone, LLC, our criminal defense team puts years of practice in this field to work for you. We offer comprehensive guidance and aggressive representation designed to help you reach the best possible outcome.
Contact a Greeley theft crime attorney at (970) 352-8611 or via email to schedule a consultation today.
Overview of Colorado Theft Crimes
Under Colorado Revised Statute Section 18-4-401, theft crimes are classified according to the value of the property or services stolen.
The types of theft crimes include:
- Petty Theft (Class 1 Petty Offense): Property stolen with a value under $50 falls under this category. The penalties may include up to 6 months in jail and fines of up to $500.
- Misdemeanor Theft: If the stolen property exceeds $50 but does not exceed $2,000, it is considered a misdemeanor.
- Felony Theft: Theft becomes a felony when the value of the stolen property is $2,000 or more. The consequences can be severe, including significant fines and potential imprisonment.
Theft involving property valued at $300 or above but less than $1,000 is prosecuted as a Class 2 misdemeanor, punishable by 120 days of jail time and/or a fine of up to $750 and restitution to the victim. Probation may be granted instead of jail time, depending on the circumstances.
Theft involving property valued at $1,000 or above but less than $2,000 is prosecuted as a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 364 days of jail time and/or a fine of up to $1,000 and victim restitution.
Felony Theft in Colorado
Felony theft is also referred to as grand theft or grand larceny. It can include passing bad checks, embezzlement, shoplifting, and more.
Colorado bases felony theft on the following property values:
- Class 6 Felony: Property valued from $2,000 and more but less than $5,000 punishable by one to one and a half years in prison and/or fines ranging from $1,000 up to $100,000.
- Class 5 Felony: Property valued from $5,000 or more but less than $20,000 punishable by one to three years in prison and/or fines of $1,000 up to $100,000.
- Class 4 Felony: Property valued at $20,000 and more but less than $100,000 punishable by two to six years in prison and/or fines of $2,000 up to $500,000.
- Class 3 Felony: Property valued at $100,000 or more but less than $1,000,000 punishable by four to 12 years in prison and/or fines ranging between $3,000 up to $750,000.
- Class 2 Felony: Property valued at $1,000,000 or more is punishable by eight to 24 years in prison and/or fines ranging from $5,000 to $1,000,000.
In all of the above cases, the court can order restitution to the victim. Increased penalties generally apply when theft is committed against “at-risk” people, such as people with disabilities or those aged 70 or older.
Other Types of Colorado Theft
Other theft-related offenses include burglary, robbery, identity theft, and motor vehicle theft. These crimes are generally charged as felonies.
In all cases of theft, however, how you are charged will be based on the circumstances of your case and your prior criminal history, if any.
The Importance of Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Colorado
A theft crime conviction can have lasting repercussions on your future. It can affect your employment prospects, housing opportunities, professional licenses, and personal relationships. A criminal record may limit your options and create barriers to fulfilling your life.
Navigating the legal system can be daunting, especially when facing theft crime charges. A knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer can provide invaluable support throughout the entire process.
Our skilled defense lawyers at Peek Goldstone, LLC, understand the potential consequences and will work diligently to protect your reputation and minimize the impact on your future endeavors. We will thoroughly analyze the evidence, develop a strong defense strategy, negotiate with prosecutors, and ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
Work with a proven legal team. Call us at (970) 352-8611 today.
