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Missouri Theft and Larceny Offenses & Penalties
According to Missouri Code §570.030, one could be accused of theft if they have taken another person's property or services with the intent to deprive the owner, either without consent or by deceit or coercion.
Typically, all theft-related crimes are referred to as "stealing" or "property offenses" under Missouri law and can be classified as either misdemeanors or felonies - depending on the value of the goods that were unlawfully acquired and/or the nature of the property.
For this reason, all applicable theft crimes can be categorized as follows:
Class A Misdemeanor
One could be charged with a Class A misdemeanor if the value of the stolen property was $500 or less - which would also apply if a person has received stolen property that was valued at less than $500. The penalties may include a term of imprisonment for up to 1 year and a fine of $1,000.
Class D Felony
One could be charged with a Class D felony if they have stolen an animal that belongs to another person and/or they had been convicted of 2 prior theft-related offenses within 10 years. The penalties may include a term of imprisonment of up to 4 years and a fine of $5,000.
Class C Felony
One could be charged with a Class C felony if the value of the stolen property was between $500 and $25,000 and/or the stolen property was a motor vehicle, firearm, or credit card. The penalties may include a term of imprisonment for up to 7 years and a fine of $5,000.
Class B Felony
One could be charged with a Class B felony, which would be the most serious theft-related offense, if the value of the stolen property was $25,000 or more. The penalties may include a term of imprisonment for up to 15 years, but not less than 5 years.
Common Types of Theft Crimes in Missouri
When facing theft charges in Missouri, it's important to understand the different types of theft offenses and the potential penalties associated with each. Our St. Louis theft crime lawyers are well-versed in Missouri theft laws and can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need.
Common theft offenses in Missouri include:
- Petty theft
- Grand theft
- Shoplifting
- Auto theft
- Identity theft
- Robbery
- Burglary
- Embezzlement
- Credit card fraud
- Receiving stolen property
- Theft by deception
- Forgery
Whether you have been wrongfully accused of stealing or are seeking a strong defense against theft charges, JMH Law Firm, LLC is here to help. Contact us today for immediate assistance and personalized legal support.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the potential penalties for stealing in MO?
The potential penalties for a theft offense in Missouri can vary depending on the value of the stolen property and the nature of the offense. It could range from imprisonment for up to 1 year and a fine of $1,000 for a Class A misdemeanor to imprisonment for up to 15 years for a Class B felony.
Can I be charged with a felony for a theft offense?
Yes, depending on the value of the stolen property and the circumstances of the offense, you could be charged with a felony for a theft offense in Missouri. This includes Class D, Class C, and Class B felonies for different types and values of stolen property.
What should I do if I've been accused of stealing?
If you've been accused of committing a theft crime, it's crucial to seek legal representation from a knowledgeable theft attorney in St. Louis. Contacting a reputable law firm with experience in defending against theft charges is essential to protect your rights and build a strong defense.
What determines if theft is a misdemeanor or felony?
The classification of a theft offense as a misdemeanor or a felony is primarily determined by the value of the stolen property and the specific circumstances of the offense. The nature of the property (e.g., animals, vehicles, firearms, or credit cards) can also impact the classification.
Accused of Theft? Contact JMH Law Firm, LLC
If you or someone you love has been accused of committing a theft offense in Missouri, it is imperative that you contact a St. Louis theft crime attorney at JMH Law Firm, LLC as soon as possible. With more than 60 years of experience to contribute to your defense, our firm is well-equipped to shield you from the penalties of a conviction. Additionally, our attorneys have personally represented clients in more than 100 criminal jury trials, bench trials, and contested hearings.
Trust in our capable legal team today and contact our firmor submit a free case evaluation form online.
