What’s Considered Grand Theft?
Grand theft, also known as grand larceny, is a serious crime that involves the theft of property with a value of $950 or more. In this article, we will explore what is considered grand theft, the different types of grand theft, and the penalties associated with this crime.
What is Grand Theft?
Grand theft is a criminal offense that is defined by state laws. In general, grand theft is the theft of property with a value of $950 or more. The value of the property stolen is what determines whether the crime is considered grand theft or petit theft, which is a less serious crime.
Types of Grand Theft
There are several types of grand theft, including:
- Grand Theft of a Vehicle: The theft of a vehicle is considered grand theft if the vehicle is worth $950 or more. This type of theft is often committed by joyriding or stealing a car for its parts.
- Grand Theft of Personal Property: The theft of personal property, such as jewelry, electronics, or furniture, is considered grand theft if the value of the property is $950 or more.
- Grand Theft of Commercial Property: The theft of commercial property, such as merchandise or inventory, is considered grand theft if the value of the property is $950 or more.
- Grand Theft of Financial Instruments: The theft of financial instruments, such as checks or credit cards, is considered grand theft if the value of the property is $950 or more.
Penalties for Grand Theft
The penalties for grand theft vary depending on the state and the value of the property stolen. In general, grand theft is considered a felony offense and can result in:
- Imprisonment: Grand theft can result in imprisonment for up to 10 years in some states.
- Fines: Grand theft can result in fines of up to $10,000 or more.
- Restitution: Grand theft can result in the offender being ordered to pay restitution to the victim for the value of the stolen property.
State-by-State Laws
While the laws regarding grand theft vary from state to state, most states consider grand theft to be a felony offense. Here are some examples of state-by-state laws regarding grand theft:
| State | Value of Stolen Property Required for Grand Theft |
|---|---|
| California | $950 or more |
| Florida | $750 or more |
| New York | $1,000 or more |
| Texas | $2,500 or more |
Defenses Against Grand Theft Charges
While grand theft is a serious crime, there are some defenses that can be used against these charges. These include:
- Lack of Intent: The defendant did not intend to steal the property.
- Mistake: The defendant mistakenly believed they had the right to take the property.
- Duress: The defendant was forced to steal the property against their will.
- Insanity: The defendant was insane or mentally ill at the time of the theft.
Conclusion
Grand theft is a serious crime that involves the theft of property with a value of $950 or more. The penalties for grand theft vary depending on the state and the value of the property stolen. If you have been charged with grand theft, it is important to consult with an attorney who has experience with these types of cases.
Table: Grand Theft Laws by State
| State | Value of Stolen Property Required for Grand Theft |
|---|---|
| California | $950 or more |
| Florida | $750 or more |
| New York | $1,000 or more |
| Texas | $2,500 or more |
Key Takeaways
- Grand theft is a felony offense that involves the theft of property with a value of $950 or more.
- There are several types of grand theft, including grand theft of a vehicle, personal property, commercial property, and financial instruments.
- The penalties for grand theft vary depending on the state and the value of the property stolen.
- If you have been charged with grand theft, it is important to consult with an attorney who has experience with these types of cases.
