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When is Theft Considered a Felony?

Image of man taking money from a cash register and putting it in his pocket.

Understanding Felony Charges for Theft

Theft is a general term that can refer to many different types of crimes — and some are more severe than others. Theft can be categorized in two ways, as a misdemeanor or felony, and categorization depends on the value of the stolen property. In Michigan, misdemeanor theft could range from 93 days to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,000, as well as three times the value of the property stolen, whichever is greater. However, when it comes to felony theft, the consequences are more severe. Here’s what you need to know.

Examples of Felony Theft

The following are the most common types of theft that fall under the classification of a felony:

  • Grand theft - Unlawfully taking items or money typically valued at $1,000 or more.
  • Grand theft auto - Unlawfully taking another person’s vehicle without permission.
  • Receiving stolen property - Taken property that you know or should have known was stolen.
  • Embezzlement - When you have a fiduciary responsibility and are trusted with funds, but take monies from those funds for personal use and gain.
  • Robbery - Taking someone’s property by threat or use of force.
  • Larceny - Taking someone else’s property without the use of force with the intent to deprive that person of the use of that property.

What is the Penalty for a Felony Theft?

If convicted of felony theft, you could face the following penalties:

  • Property value stolen is $1,000 or more, but less than $20,000 - 5 years in prison and/or a fine of $10,000, or three times the value of property stolen, whichever is greater.
  • Property value stolen is $20,000 or more: Up to 10 years in prison, and/or a fine of $15,000 or 3 times the value of property stolen, whichever is greater.

Charged with Felony Theft? Grewal Law PLLC Can Help

A felony theft charge is a serious one, and harsh penalties can be the consequence. However, with an experienced criminal defense team in your corner, you can rest assured that your case will be handled with your best interest in mind to achieve the best possible outcome in your case. At Grewal Law PLLC, our team brings over a decade of handling felony theft cases.

Call Grewal Law PLLC at (888) 211-5798 to schedule a consultation and learn your rights.