Roseville Police Will Be Watching for These Common Holiday Crimes
By Sullivan Rice
The holiday season is a time for giving, celebration, and making memories with loved ones. Unfortunately, it’s also a time when certain crimes tend to increase, especially in busy communities like Roseville, Minnesota. As we head into the holidays, it's important to be aware of these common offenses and understand the potential legal consequences if you're caught breaking the law.
Here are some of the top crimes to watch for in the Roseville area this holiday season, along with the penalties you could face if charged:
Shoplifting
With the surge of holiday shopping, stores and malls in Roseville become crowded, creating opportunities for crimes like shoplifting. In Minnesota, shoplifting is defined as taking or concealing property without permission, which includes activities like switching price tags, using false representations, or removing items from the store without paying.
Penalties for shoplifting vary depending on the value of the goods stolen:
Under $500: Up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
$500 to $1,000: Up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $3,000.
Over $1,000: Felony charges, with the potential for up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Over $35,000 or stolen firearms: You could face up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $100,000.
If you’re caught shoplifting in Roseville, the penalties can be severe. Understanding your rights and working with an experienced attorney can make all the difference.
Vehicle Theft
Vehicle theft is another crime that sees an increase during the holidays. In Minnesota, vehicle theft is defined as unlawfully taking or using someone else’s vehicle with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. With more vehicles on the streets and in parking lots during holiday shopping, the risk of theft goes up.
Penalties for vehicle theft in Roseville depend on the value of the stolen vehicle:
Vehicles valued under $5,000: Up to 5 years in prison.
Vehicles valued over $5,000: Up to 10 years in prison.
The consequences for stealing a vehicle are serious, so it’s critical to understand how the law applies and the penalties you could face.
Package Theft
With more people shopping online, package theft is a growing problem in Roseville and the surrounding areas. Many thieves target unattended packages left on doorsteps or porches. In Minnesota, taking a package or mail that doesn’t belong to you is considered mail theft, a felony offense.
Penalties for mail theft include:
Up to 3 years in prison.
Fines up to $5,000.
If you're caught stealing packages from someone’s porch or mailbox in Roseville, you could face significant legal consequences.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
For many people, the holidays involve social gatherings with food, drinks, and celebration. If you plan to drink, make sure you have a safe, designated driver, because getting behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol or drugs can lead to DUI charges in Minnesota.
Penalties for DUI in Roseville include:
First offense: Up to 90 days in jail, fines up to $1,000, and a license suspension of up to 1 year.
Subsequent offenses: The penalties increase, including longer license suspensions, higher fines, and the possibility of extended jail time.
If you are arrested for DUI charges in Roseville, it's important to consult with a skilled defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
Whether you're facing charges for theft, DUI, or any other holiday-related crime, it’s crucial to have a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney on your side. Jack Rice Defense is here to help if you find yourself in legal trouble in Roseville. We have years of experience defending clients against a wide range of criminal charges and are committed to securing the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Our firm is known for its aggressive defense strategies, and we work tirelessly to protect your rights. From misdemeanors to felonies, we’ll be with you every step of the way, helping you understand the charges against you and fighting to minimize the consequences.
About Jack Rice
Jack Rice is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with a reputation for his strong advocacy and successful defense strategies. He has handled a wide range of criminal cases throughout Minnesota and has a proven track record of helping clients reduce or avoid harsh penalties. Jack is committed to providing personalized legal representation tailored to each client’s needs.
If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges this holiday season in Roseville, don’t hesitate to contact Jack Rice Defense. A single mistake can have long-lasting consequences, but with the right defense, you can minimize the impact. Let us fight for your future.
