Facing Theft and Property Crimes in St. Paul? Meet Your St. Paul and Ramsey County Property Crime Lawyer

In the last couple of years, Minnesota reported well over 150,000 property crimes per year, with more than 100,000 of those offenses involving theft, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Burglary accounted for more than 25,000 of the crimes. Laws are designed to punish those who intentionally steal, damage, or trespass on the property of others. This property can include tangible items like vehicles and land as well as intangible items, including telecommunications services or even a person’s identity. These offenses can carry severe punishments, including jail time and significant fines. If you are facing shoplifting, theft or property crimes, reach out to Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation.

“Shoplifting charges are real criminal offenses and can result in a criminal conviction and a permanent blot on your record.”

St. Paul Theft Attorney Jack Rice is a St. Paul theft and property crime lawyer committed to working with his clients to achieve favorable outcomes in their cases. His experience and insight into the prosecution's strategies are invaluable when crafting a robust defense against criminal charges. Call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339 to schedule a free consultation. Jack Rice Law serves clients throughout Ramsey County, including areas like Roseville, Maplewood, and White Bear Lake, as well as throughout the Twin Cities region, including Hennepin County and Dakota County.

Information About Theft and Property Crimes

Charges for Theft in Ramsey County

In Minnesota, several acts can qualify as theft offenses, generally involving some form of property. State law defines property to include tangible assets such as documents, electricity, gas, water, and animals.

According to Minnesota Statute 609.52, a person may be charged with a theft offense if they:

• Intentionally take, use, transfer, or conceal property belonging to another person without the owner’s consent;

• Obtain possession, custody, or title to property or services through intentional deception;

• Obtain services or property from others through swindling;

• Find lost property and make no reasonable effort to return it;

• Intentionally obtain property from a machine without making the required deposit;

• Lease or rent property but fail to return it or pay for it;

• Intentionally deprive another of lawful charges for cable or telecommunications services; or

• Take or drive a motor vehicle without the owner's consent.

Possible Penalties for Theft Offenses

The penalties for theft offenses in Minnesota vary based on the dollar value of the property involved. The value is typically assessed as the retail market value at the time of theft. If this cannot be determined, the cost to replace the property will be considered.

• Misdemeanor theft (Shoplifting) (property value under $500): Up to 90 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both.

• Value between $500 and $1,000: Up to one year in jail, $3,000 in fines, or both.

• Value between $1,000 and $5,000: Up to five years in prison, $10,000 in fines, or both.

• Value between $5,000 and $35,000: Up to 10 years in prison, $20,000 in fines, or both.

• Value over $35,000: Up to 20 years in prison, $100,000 in fines, or both.

• Theft of a trade secret or explosive device can lead to up to 10 years in prison and $20,000 in fines, while theft of a firearm is punishable by up to 20 years in prison and $100,000 in fines.

Other Theft-Related Crimes

Minnesota law recognizes various charges associated with theft. For instance, possessing stolen property, even without committing the act of theft, can lead to criminal charges. Other theft-related offenses include:

• Possession of shoplifting gear;

• Bringing stolen goods into the state;

• Receiving stolen property as precious metal and scrap metal dealers;

• Identity theft;

• Mail theft;

• Possession or sale of stolen checks;

• Embezzlement of public funds.

“Theft and property crimes can come with ramifications far beyond just how long the government can put you in prison.“

Property Crimes under Minnesota Law

Several offenses could be classified as property crimes in Minnesota, often involving damage or an attempt to damage property. Common property crimes include:

• Arson: Intentionally setting something on fire, categorized by degrees based on property value and whether persons were present at the time.

• Burglary: Entering a building without consent with the intent to commit a crime, classified by degrees based on the intended crime's severity.

• Criminal Damage to Property: Intentionally damaging another person's property, prosecuted according to the property's value and associated risks of harm.

• Trespass: General trespassing is typically a misdemeanor, but it can become a gross misdemeanor under certain conditions, such as trespassing on emergency assistance shelter grounds.

Contact Jack Rice Defense for Your Property and Theft Cases in St. Paul

If you are facing theft or property crimes in St. Paul, understanding your rights and crafting an effective defense is essential. Reach out to Jack Rice Defense at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339 for assistance. We are dedicated to helping you navigate through the complexities of theft and property allegations and protecting your future.