If you are facing theft charges in West Jordan, you should know that it is a serious matter and should not be taken lightly. The consequences of even a minor charge can have a lasting impact on your life.
Theft encompasses a wide variety of criminal offenses, which can range from small acts like shoplifting to more serious offenses like robbery. Theft charges can result in anything from misdemeanors to serious felonies, depending on the severity of the offense. In addition to the legal penalties, theft charges can have significant consequences beyond the courtroom. That is why our team is here to provide you with the defense you rightfully deserve.
For a free case review, speak with our theft defense attorneys at Overson & Bugden by calling us today at (801) 758-2287.
Understanding Theft Crimes in West Jordan, UT
Theft crimes are a prevalent category of offenses committed in West Jordan. These crimes range from minor infractions to serious felonies, each carrying its unique legal ramifications and penalties. However, our theft defense attorneys can help by providing a defense suited to your case’s needs. The following are different types of theft crimes that we can help you defend against in West Jordan:
Theft
According to Utah Code § 76-6-404, theft is defined as an act of intentionally taking or appropriating someone else’s property without their consent and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property. This definition encompasses various methods of taking, including deception, extortion, or knowingly acquiring property that has been stolen by someone else.
The penalties for theft depend on the value of the stolen property. If the value of the property is less than $500, the crime is considered a Class B misdemeanor, which carries a maximum imprisonment term of six months and a fine of up to $1,000. However, if the value of the stolen property exceeds $5,000, the theft is classified as a second-degree felony, which can result in up to 15 years of imprisonment and fines up to $10,000.
The penalties for theft might also be influenced by other factors, such as the use of violence or the perpetrator’s criminal history.
Shoplifting
Shoplifting is a specific form of theft that involves intentionally and unlawfully taking merchandise from a commercial establishment without paying the retail value of the item. This can be accomplished through various means, such as concealing the item, altering price tags, or manipulating a cash register or other sales devices.
Under Utah Code § 76-6-602, the penalties for shoplifting depend on the retail value of the merchandise involved. If the value is less than $500, the offense is considered a Class B misdemeanor, while if the value is more than $5,000, the crime is classified as a second-degree felony2. In addition to potential jail time and fines, individuals convicted of shoplifting might also be liable for civil damages to the retailer.
Robbery
While robbery involves the taking of another person’s property, similar to theft, it is considered a more severe offense because of the element of force or fear involved. Under Utah law, robbery is defined as intentionally taking or attempting to take personal property in the possession of another from his person or immediate presence, against his will, by means of force or fear.
Robbery is classified as a second-degree felony under Utah Code § 76-6-301, punishable by one to 15 years in prison. However, if during the commission of the robbery, the offender uses or threatens to use a dangerous weapon, causes serious bodily injury, or takes or attempts to take an operable motor vehicle, the robbery is escalated to a first-degree felony. This can result in a minimum mandatory prison term of five years, which might be for life.
Theft of Services
Theft of services, also known as service theft or service fraud, is an illegal act that involves obtaining and utilizing services without payment through fraudulent or deceptive means under Utah Code § 76-6-409. Service theft can take many forms, including but not limited to dining in a restaurant and leaving without paying the bill, using cable television or internet services without a proper subscription, or taking advantage of any service that requires payment without fulfilling the obligation.
The severity of the charges and penalties for theft of services often depends on the value of the services stolen, the degree of deception involved, and the intent of the perpetrator. In some cases, the value of the stolen services might be negligible, but the consequences can still be severe, particularly if the activities involve multiple instances over a period of time.
Receiving Stolen Property
Under Utah Code § 76-6-408, the act of receiving stolen property is also a criminal offense. Specifically, this offense involves knowingly accepting property that has been obtained unlawfully, which means that the receiver of the stolen goods was aware of the illegitimate nature of the items they received.
Various types of businesses, including pawn dealers and coin dealers, can find themselves facing these charges if they do not exercise due diligence in verifying the legitimacy of the items they receive. Failure to do so can result in significant legal consequences, including fines and even imprisonment.
Identity Theft
In today’s digital age, identity theft is a pressing concern that affects millions of people worldwide. This criminal activity involves the unauthorized acquisition of someone’s personal information, such as their name, date of birth, social security number, credit card details, and other sensitive data, with the intention of using it for financial gain or other fraudulent activities.
Burglary
According to Utah Code § 76-6-202, burglary is a type of theft crime that is committed by illegally entering a building or dwelling with the intention to commit a crime, usually theft. There are two distinct types of burglary: simple burglary and aggravated burglary. Simple burglary refers to instances where the perpetrator enters a building or dwelling without the use of any dangerous weapon and without causing any bodily injury to anyone during the commission of the offense.
On the other hand, aggravated burglary is a more serious crime that involves the use of a dangerous weapon or causing bodily injury to another person during the offense. Aggravated burglary is considered a more heinous crime and consequently carries stiffer penalties than simple burglary.
Vehicle Theft
Vehicle theft is a criminal act that involves the unauthorized taking or attempted taking of a motor vehicle. It is considered a serious offense because of the high value of most vehicles and the impact it has on the victims. The act of vehicle theft often carries severe penalties, including hefty fines and potential imprisonment, depending on the severity of the crime.
Our West Jordan, UT Theft Defense Lawyers Can Provide the Defense You Need
Call Overson & Bugden at (801) 758-2287 for a free case evaluation with our theft defense lawyers.
