What Theft Amount is a Felony?
In the United States, theft is considered a felony when the value of the stolen property exceeds a certain threshold, which varies from state to state. The threshold amount can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the jurisdiction. In this article, we will explore the concept of felony theft, including the varying state laws and the consequences of being convicted of a felony theft crime.
Direct Answer to the Question
In the United States, the threshold amount for theft to be considered a felony varies from state to state. According to the FBI, the average threshold for felony theft is around $1,000 to $1,500. However, some states have a higher threshold, while others have a lower threshold.
Here is a breakdown of the felony theft threshold amounts by state:
| State | Felony Theft Threshold |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $500 |
| Alaska | $1,000 |
| Arizona | $1,000 |
| Arkansas | $500 |
| California | $950 |
| Colorado | $1,000 |
| Connecticut | $500 |
| Delaware | $1,000 |
| Florida | $300 |
| Georgia | $1,500 |
| Hawaii | $500 |
| Idaho | $1,000 |
| Illinois | $500 |
| Indiana | $750 |
| Iowa | $750 |
| Kansas | $1,000 |
| Kentucky | $500 |
| Louisiana | $500 |
| Maine | $500 |
| Maryland | $1,000 |
| Massachusetts | $250 |
| Michigan | $500 |
| Minnesota | $500 |
| Mississippi | $500 |
| Missouri | $500 |
| Montana | $500 |
| Nebraska | $500 |
| Nevada | $1,000 |
| New Hampshire | $500 |
| New Jersey | $200 |
| New Mexico | $500 |
| New York | $1,000 |
| North Carolina | $1,000 |
| North Dakota | $500 |
| Ohio | $1,000 |
| Oklahoma | $500 |
| Oregon | $500 |
| Pennsylvania | $500 |
| Rhode Island | $500 |
| South Carolina | $1,000 |
| South Dakota | $500 |
| Tennessee | $500 |
| Texas | $1,500 |
| Utah | $1,500 |
| Vermont | $500 |
| Virginia | $200 |
| Washington | $1,000 |
| West Virginia | $500 |
| Wisconsin | $500 |
| Wyoming | $500 |
Consequences of Being Convicted of a Felony Theft Crime
A felony theft conviction can have severe consequences, including:
- Prison time: A felony theft conviction can result in a sentence of several years in prison, depending on the jurisdiction and the severity of the crime.
- Fines: In addition to prison time, a felony theft conviction can result in significant fines, which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
- Criminal record: A felony theft conviction can result in a criminal record, which can make it difficult to obtain employment, secure a loan, or find housing.
- Loss of voting rights: In some states, a felony theft conviction can result in the loss of voting rights.
- Loss of professional licenses: A felony theft conviction can result in the loss of professional licenses, such as a medical or law license.
Defenses to Felony Theft Charges
While felony theft charges can be serious, there are several defenses that may be available to individuals who are accused of these crimes. Some of these defenses include:
- Lack of intent: If the accused did not intend to steal the property, they may be able to use this defense to avoid a felony theft conviction.
- Mistake of fact: If the accused believed that they had the right to take the property, they may be able to use this defense to avoid a felony theft conviction.
- Duress: If the accused was forced to commit the theft by someone else, they may be able to use this defense to avoid a felony theft conviction.
- Enticement: If the accused was tricked or deceived into committing the theft, they may be able to use this defense to avoid a felony theft conviction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the threshold amount for theft to be considered a felony varies from state to state. While the average threshold is around $1,000 to $1,500, some states have a higher threshold, while others have a lower threshold. A felony theft conviction can have severe consequences, including prison time, fines, and a criminal record. However, there are several defenses that may be available to individuals who are accused of these crimes. If you are accused of a felony theft crime, it is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights.
