Theft Crimes
Burglary
If a person inters another person’s house with the intent of taking something
without the other person’s knowledge or authorization, then they are committing
burglary. The sentence ranges depending on the number of convictions:
- First offense—1 to 20 years
- Second offense—2 to 20 years
- Third offense—5 to 20 years
Robbery
In Georgia, for a person to be committed of robbery, the prosecution must prove
that their was force involved. This force can be an actual force, intimidation,
threat of serious bodily injury or if he or she suddenly snatched the item in
question away. To be convicted, a prosecutor must prove that the person used force
with the intent to commit theft. If convicted you could face anywhere from 1 to
20 years in prison. Armed Robbery
The definition is very similar to that of robbery with one main exception, a weapon
or object with the appearance of a weapon must be used. This is a more severe
crime and is therefore treated with an increase in jail time. A conviction will
give you a felony charge and 10 to 20 years in prison. Theft
Under Georgia law, there are two main types of theft: physical theft
of an object and theft by deception. The only real distinction comes with what
was taken.
Theft by Taking
Theft by taking occurs when another individual takes, appropriates,
or carries away another person’s property depriving them of it.
Theft by Deception
Theft by deception occurs when a person deceives the owner of the property.
An example of this would be if an individual writes a bad check to a lawn care
company for their lawn job. This person would be guilty of theft by deception
because they deceived the lawn care company.
Theft by Conversion
Theft by conversion occurs when an individual obtains an item for some
use and decides to use it for another use. For example, you get a local business
to donate a computer for a charity but instead you decide to keep the computer.
This is theft by conversion. If the value of the item or items is less than
$500, then you are charged with a misdemeanor. If the value is over $500, you
could face anywhere from 1 to 10 years in jail.
Theft by Shoplifting
Theft by shoplifting occurs when an individual picks up an item and
proceeds to:
- Conceal the merchandise
- Transfer goods from one place to another
- Alter the tags on the merchandise
- Switching price tags on the merchandise
- Causing the amount paid to be less than the stated price
If a person is convicted of shoplifting under $300 worth of merchandise,
they will receive a misdemeanor charge. Once a person goes over this $300
limit, they will receive a felony conviction and anywhere from 1 to 10 years
in prison.
Without a lawyer, you could face serious jail time and outrageous fees. The
Law Offices of Geerdes and Kim, LLC, can help you avoid severe sentences. Call
us now for a free consultation.
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