Does Petty Theft Go on Your Record?
Contents
A Overview of Petty Theft
Petty theft, also known as larceny, is the act of taking something of value belonging to another person without their permission. In most cases, petty theft is a non-violent crime, and the consequences are generally less severe compared to other types of theft. However, many individuals wonder whether petty theft will go on their record. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide valuable information on how petty theft affects your criminal history.
Does Petty Theft Go on Your Record?
In short, the answer is: yes, petty theft typically goes on your record. Here’s why:
- Most states require the arrest record to be kept and can be accessible to the public.
- A petty theft conviction usually results in a criminal record, which is a matter of public record.
- Many states allow employers, lenders, and other entities to access criminal records to make informed decisions.
However, the way petty theft appears on your record depends on various factors, which we’ll discuss later.
Petty Theft Recordkeeping Systems
Petty theft records are kept by local, state, and federal agencies, which use different systems to record and manage criminal histories. Here are the three primary systems:
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): The FBI maintains the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS), which collects and stores fingerprint-based data, including petty theft arrests and convictions.
- State Police Records: Most states maintain their own police records databases, which may include information on petty theft arrests, convictions, and other crimes.
- Local Police Records: Municipal and local police agencies keep records of petty theft incidents, including arrests and convictions.
These records can be accessed by law enforcement, employers, lenders, and other organizations for various purposes.
Priorities of Record Retention
State laws determine how long petty theft records are kept. Here’s a breakdown of the common priorities for record retention:
- 10-15 years: In many states, petty theft records are typically retained for 10-15 years after the date of the offense. After this period, the record is usually purged from the database.
- 30 years or more: In some cases, more severe or aggravated petty theft convictions may remain on record for 30 years or more.
Here’s a summary of state-by-state retention priorities for petty theft records:
| State | Retention Priority |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 10 years |
| Alaska | 5 years |
| Arizona | 5 years |
| Arkansas | 10 years |
| California | 10 years |
| Colorado | 5 years |
| Connecticut | 20 years |
| Delaware | 5 years |
| Florida | 5 years |
| Georgia | 7 years |
Please note that retention priorities may change, so it’s essential to verify this information for each state.
Cleaning Your Record through Expungement
Even if your petty theft record is publicly available, it’s possible to have it expunged. Expungement is the legal process of removing a criminal record from the public eye. Not all states offer expungement, and eligibility criteria vary. In some cases, you may be able to have your record expunged through a legal proceeding or through the sealing of your records.
Here are the basic requirements for expungement in some states:
| State | Expungement Requirements |
|---|---|
| California | Successful completion of probation, dismissal, or acquittal |
| Florida | Completed sentence, sealing of record |
| Georgia | Successfully completed probation, pardon, or discharge |
Not all records are eligible for expungement. Certain crimes, including serious violent offenses, are generally exempt from expungement. Additionally, expungement may not necessarily erase all records of the offense; it can, however, prevent the record from being publicly available.
Consequences of a Petty Theft Conviction on Your Record
Even if petty theft goes on your record, it can have long-lasting consequences, including:
- Job Prospects: A petty theft conviction may impact your employability, as some employers conduct criminal background checks.
- Lender and Financial Difficulties: A conviction can make it more challenging to obtain credit, loans, or financial aid.
- Rental Applications: Some landlords conduct criminal background checks, and a petty theft conviction may be a consideration when approving a rental application.
- Professional Licensing: Depending on the occupation or licensing authority, a petty theft conviction may impact your ability to practice or hold a license.
To minimize the consequences, it’s essential to consult with an attorney if you’re arrested for petty theft. An experienced legal professional can guide you through the legal process, advocate for your interests, and explore options for reducing the severity of the conviction.
Conclusion
Petty theft typically goes on your record, which can have lasting consequences on your criminal history, job prospects, financial opportunities, and more. Understanding how petty theft affects your record can help you make informed decisions and potentially mitigate the negative impact of a conviction. Remember that expungement is possible in many states, but eligibility requirements vary. It’s essential to consult with an attorney and thoroughly review your options to ensure a fair outcome.
