Theft offenses occur when one party improperly assumes possession of assets that belong to another person or a business. Theft crimes could involve shoplifting at a store. Both burglary and robbery are also common forms of theft. Those accused of taking the property of others can face significant criminal penalties if they plead guilty or get convicted at a trial.
Idaho prosecutors may file charges against individuals even if all they take is a piece of makeup at a convenience store. Oftentimes, those accused of theft offenses expect to face misdemeanor charges. However, the state can sometimes charge people with felony offenses because of an alleged theft.
When could a property crime become a felony offense in Idaho?
Asset value determines the charges brought
The state looks carefully at the situation to determine what charges to pursue. Breaking into a property, injuring a person or threatening someone with a deadly weapon can all increase the charges and penalties that result from an alleged theft offense. Often, the main consideration will be the total value of the items stolen.
Once the property reaches $1,000 in value, the state can prosecute the situation as a case of grand theft. In fact, a series of thefts could lead to grand theft charges if the total value of items taken adds up to $1,000 or more. Allegations of grand theft will typically lead to felony charges against the person accused. The penalties could include up to $10,000 in fines and between one and 20 years in prison. Offenses involving lower-value resources will lead to misdemeanor offenses punishable by $1,000 in fines and up to a year in jail.
Learning the basics of Idaho theft laws, and seeking legal guidance accordingly, may benefit those accused of committing property-related offenses.