Theft is charged in Greeley, Evans, Erie, and Weld County whenever a person takes an item of value from someone else without the intention of returning it. Usually, Theft is charged after shoplifting, embezzlement, or other more stealthy forms of stealing. I recently read an article about a man who was involved a not-so-subtle Theft – he allegedly drove a riding lawn mower right out of the store. Let’s look closer at Theft charges, and learn why hiring the best criminal defense lawyer is crucial for your future.
Man Drives Lawn Mower Out of Store
According to the news, a man stole a riding lawn mower and drove it right out of the gates of a local Wal-Mart. He apparently escaped detection for quite some time, because he wasn’t found until 10 miles down the road. Footage from security tapes show him going into the store, filling up a lawn mower with gas, cutting the chain link fence where the mower was stored, and driving it away. If this had occurred in Morgan, Logan, or Weld County, the level of severity of Theft he was charged with would be based on how much the lawn mower was worth. Theft charges range anywhere from class 1 petty offense up to a class 2 felony.
Have you been charged with Criminal Mischief or Theft? Contact the experienced criminal defense lawyers from the O’Malley Law Office to defend you today!
Have you been charged with Criminal Mischief or Theft? Contact the experienced criminal defense lawyers from the O’Malley Law Office to defend you today!
Additional Charge of Criminal Mischief in Weld County
In addition to the Theft charge, the man is also facing a Criminal Mischief charge. This offense is charged whenever a person damages another person’s property. Like Theft, the classification of the crime is based on how much damage was done. In this story, the charge is likely the result of the man cutting the fence. The cost to repair the fence would determine the severity of the charge. For example, let’s say the repair cost is $350. If this crime had occurred in Berthoud or another Northern Colorado town, he would be charged with a class 2 misdemeanor, because the damage was between $300 and $749.
Theft and Criminal Mischief: Why You Need the Best Greeley Theft Lawyer
Both Theft and Criminal Mischief charges are based on the value of the items that were stolen or damaged. Because of this, police officers, investigators, and Greeley District Attorneys can inflate the charges. For example, a TV that once was worth $1,000, but is now only worth $500 will be valued at the original price. And, the worth of all damaged or stolen items is combined, which increases the classification. Because of this, you need the insight and experience of an aggressive criminal defense attorney who will fight to ensure you get the best possible outcome in your criminal case.
If you or a loved one has been charged with Theft or Criminal Mischief in Greeley, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the O’Malley Law Office for a free consultation at 970-616-6009. Together, we can protect your future.
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