No criminal accusation can be more confusing and/or embarrassing as Shoplifting/Theft. Not only can this little mistake or lapse in judgement cause you short-term problems (like having to have to go to court, pay fines, etc,) but the long-term consequences can be even more devastating. This is why you need to know your rights and talk to a Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney.
Under Minnesota law, Theft offenses are quite varied. Ranging from walking out of a store without paying for something or you might be alleged to have deceived someone for monetary gain. As a Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney, I know the "ins" and "outs" of Minnesota's Theft laws and can make sure that you get the outcome you deserve while involved in the criminal justice system.
What Can a Lawyer Do?
As your attorney, it would be my responsibility to make sure your rights are protected at every stage of the criminal justice process. I also work to ensure that you get the best possible results on your case.
What Are the Consequences?
The type of charge and sentence you might receive depends on many factors and the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense. Number one: the value of the property or services your receive.
If the value is greater than $5,000 but less than $35,000 or the property is a trade secret or explosive, you will also face felony charges and up to 10 years in prison with fines reaching $20,000.
If the value of the property or services is more than $1,000 and less than $5,000 you will face up to 5 years in prison and fines of $10,000.
If the value is between $500 and $1,000 your charge will likely be a gross misdemeanor and your potential sentence could reach up to one year in jail and $3,000 in fines.
Many Shoplifting offense fall under this provision of the law:
Any cases involving property or services valued at less than $500 is a misdemeanor and punishable by up to 90 days in jail and fines of up to $1,000.
What Constitutes Theft?
There are numerous acts that constitute theft. If you do any of the following you could be charged with this offense:
- Intentionally take, use, transfer, conceal, or retain possession of property of another without consent and with the intention of depriving the rightful owner of possession;
- Obtaining possession, title, or services through false representation;
- Obtaining property or services from another by trick or swindle;
- Finding lost property and failing to attempt to find the right owner and surrender the property;
- Intentionally obtaining property out of a money operated machine without depositing money;
- Altering or removing identification numbers on property with the intent to prevent identification of rightful owner; and
- Stealing cable through unauthorized connections.
What Should You Do?
There are a many different Theft/Shoplifting offenses under Minnesota law. Many of them are confusing and very complex. To be certain you know what you are up against when facing theft charges in court, call to discuss your case today.
If you want to have your situation cleared up - call the Rolloff Law Office for a case evaluation. We'll discuss the allegations against you, and let you know all the possible defense options, and what you can expect might be the most likely and possible outcomes.
Find out what we can do to help by calling us today: (612) 234-1165.
