The concept of theft is generally understood by most people. What many people may not know, however, is how theft differs from burglary or robbery. It is important to know that these crimes are different from one another and can result in their own set of consequences. Continue reading below to learn more and contact an experienced Maryland criminal defense attorney if you are facing any of these charges.
What are the Consequences of Theft?
Theft charges cover a variety of different offenses. This can include larceny, false pretenses, shoplifting, embezzlement, and more. The consequences of these crimes can vary depending on the value stolen. In addition to this, there are subsequent offender penalties that can increase the amount of jail time and fines for more convictions. The consequences of these crimes can consist of the following:
- Property valued at under $100 can result in a misdemeanor charge, up to 90 days in jail, and a maximum $500 fine
- Property valued between $100 and $1499 can result in a misdemeanor charge, up to 6 months in jail and a maximum $500 fine
- Property valued between $1500 and $24,999 can result in up to 5 years in prison and a maximum $10,000 fine.
- If the property is valued between $25,000 and $99,000, it can result in up to 10 years in prison and a maximum $15,000 fine.
- If the property is valued over $100,000, offenders can face up to 20 years in prison and a maximum $25,000 fine.
Consequences of Burglary
Burglary is when a person breaks into a commercial building or residence with the intention of committing a crime. This does not involve interaction with the victim. The consequences of these crimes can include:
- First-degree: If there was an intent to commit theft, the consequences can include up to 20 years in prison. If there was an intent to commit a violent crime, it can include up to 25 years in prison.
- Second-degree: If there was an intent of theft, violence, or arson, the consequences can include up to 15 years in jail. If there was an intent to steal a firearm, it can include up to 20 years with a $10,000 fine.
- Third-degree: Consequences can include up to 10 years in jail if there was an intent to commit a crime.
- Fourth-degree: Breaking and entering a dwelling or business with no specific intent to commit a crime, being in possession of burglar’s tools with intent to commit a breaking and entering, or breaking and entering a motor vehicle are misdemeanor charges that can result in up to 3 years in jail.
- Burglary with a destructive device is a felony that can result in up to 20 years in prison.
- Breaking into a research facility is considered a felony and can result in up to 5 years in prison and a maximum $5,000 fine.
Consequences of Robbery
Unlike most theft and burglary offenses, robbery does require interaction with a victim. Coercion, intimidation, or force must take place. The consequences of this charge can include:
- Robbery: Can result in up to 15 years in jail.
- Robbery with a dangerous weapon (armed robbery): Can result in up to 20 years in jail.
Contact our Firm
The Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz proudly offers criminal defense and personal injury services to clients in Anne Arundel County and Howard County Maryland. With so much at stake, you need a legal team you can trust. Contact the Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz today to discuss your case.
