Our Atlanta criminal defense lawyer explains the different types of theft crimes in Georgia and the penalties associated with each.
If you are accused of committing any type of theft in Georgia, you need a strong legal defense. Among the most common types of crime, theft crimes have penalties that are potentially severe. Our Atlanta theft crimes lawyer explains the different kinds of theft charges and the penalties associated with each.
Georgia Theft Crimes
According to the Georgia Bureau Of Investigation (GBI), over 100,000 people are accused of committing theft crimes each year. They are the most common type of crime and can result in serious criminal charges. Among the different types of theft crimes in Georgia include:
- Larceny: This is a legal term for theft crimes that varies depending on the amount you are accused of taking. Petit larceny involves relatively minor thefts, while grand larceny involves more significant amounts of money or property.
- Shoplifting: This is one of the most common types of theft crimes and involves stealing items from retail establishments. While generally considered a minor crime, it can have serious ramifications depending on the amount stolen and any prior convictions.
- Burglary and robbery: Burglary involves unlawfully entering someone’s property with the intent to steal. Robbery is a burglary that involves verbal or physical threats and intimidation of the victim.
- Motor vehicle theft: This involves the taking or commandeering of another’s vehicle or otherwise using it without knowledge and consent.
- Swindlin: This includes elements of fraud and deception meant to deprive others of property or services.
Penalties for Theft Crimes in Georgia
Under the Georgia Code (Section 16-8-1), theft involves the illegal taking or withholding of property or services, depriving the rightful owner of use. Penalties for theft crimes, such as shoplifting, robbery, and burglary, vary based on the amount stolen:
- Under $1,500: Taking items valued under $1,500 is generally considered a misdemeanor offense. You could face fines of up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail.
- Between $1,500 and $5,000: Theft crimes where stolen property or services totals between these amounts are considered ‘wobblers’ in Georgia. This means that the judge has the ability to treat them as either misdemeanor or felony offenses, depending on the circumstances involved. If charged as a felony, you could face fines of up to $5,000 and up to five years in prison.
- Values over $5,000: This is a felony theft offense, which could result in penalties that include up to $10,000 in fines and up to a 20-year prison sentence.
For a Strong Legal Defense, Contact Our Georgia Theft Crimes Defense Lawyer
Penalties for theft crimes in Georgia have the potential to be severe, depending on the exact type of charge. At Ghanayem & Rayasam, our Atlanta theft crimes lawyer provides the strong legal defense you need. Call or contact our office online and request a consultation today.