Crimes Against Property
Property crimes can risk jail time, restitution for loss or damages, and other serious penalities.
Crimes Against Property
Larceny and Trespass can have serious consequences. Call our office now to discuss your case.
Trespass
Entering onto the property without authorization or after having been barred can result in a class one misdemeanor. The maximum penalty for this charge is a year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. In addition, the court can include probation, further court ordered bar from the premises (which could result in a contempt charge and another conviction for subsequent offenses).
This charge can have serious consequences-but the prosecution and law enforcement officers must have sufficient and specific evidence to prove their case and having a defense attorney will make sure they meet that burden. (VA Code 18.2-119)
Shoplifting.
Shoplifting is treated very seriously in Virginia, with one of the lowest threshold for a felony amount shoplifting at just $500. Merchants in Virginia also employ professional loss prevention officers and strictly prosecute offenders. In fact, most merchants are required to do so by the corporate rules.
Shoplifting also can include:
Concealment of an item while still in premise
Altering the price tag
Aid or abet another person in the performance of the above acts.
Amount or value of the items at less than $500.
If convicted, an individual could be punished by a maximum of 1 year in custody, a fine of up to $2,500. This in addition to a ban from the store, restitution paid to the merchant, and probation. You will also have been convicted of a crime of moral turpitude which generally must be disclosed on job application. A conviction under this statute could have major impact on employment prospects.
Felony Grand Larceny
Amount in controversy is more than $500. If convicted, an individual would have a felony conviction on their record. They would be convicted of grand larceny. Punishable by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than twenty years or, in the discretion of the court, be confined in jail for a period not exceeding twelve months or fined not more than $2,500, either or both.
3rd or subsequent offense for an amount of less $200. The penalty here is found under 18.2-104
If convicted you are required to serve 30 days in jail. You could serve up to 12 months in jail and a fine of $2,500. This would also be a conviction of a Class 6 Felony. This offense would not be eligible for expungement. A conviction under this offense can impact employment options and have many other ancillary consequences.