The most common type of crime in Mooresville is theft, also called larceny, which occurs when someone takes another person’s property without consent. Charges and penalties for theft offenses can vary based on the specific circumstances. If you’re facing theft-related charges, a skilled Mooresville theft lawyer at Griffin Law, PLLC can provide experienced legal representation tailored to your situation.
Mooresville Theft Lawyer
Mooresville Theft Attorney
For more than 20 years, the trusted criminal defense lawyers at Griffin Law, PLLC, have offered fierce criminal defense to residents of Mooresville and the surrounding area for offenses like theft. Our attorneys can review your case, determine the essential evidence, and develop a strong criminal defense strategy to help you achieve the most favorable outcome possible in your case.
Theft in Mooresville
According to the most recent data from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program (UCR), theft was the most common offense reported in the state in 2023. There were 180,282 reported thefts, including motor vehicle theft. Mooresville’s index rate for theft was 1964.1 offenses per 100,000 residents, significantly higher than Iredell County as a whole, at 1328.7, and the state average of 1792.
The specific charges for a theft-related offense depend on the context and details of the case. They can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies, and the degree of the charge depends on the value of the property that was taken. Theft offenses in Mooresville are generally prosecuted at the Government Center South on Center Street, although the Clerk of Superior Court is in Statesville.
In general, if the stolen property is valued at up to $1,000, the charge is generally a Class 1 misdemeanor and can result in up to 120 days in jail, fines, community service, and probation. If the property is worth more than $1,000, the charge is usually a felony, with a penalty of up to 24 months in prison, fines, probation, and/or parole. The defendant’s prior criminal record can also affect the charges.
Common Theft Crimes in Mooresville
Some of the most common theft-related charges and the penalties for conviction in Mooresville include:
- Larceny, also called theft of property, means taking property owned by another person
- Shoplifting means taking goods from a retail store without paying or concealing them with the intent of taking them without paying.
- Employee theft is when an individual steals from their employer.
- Theft of a motor vehicle means unlawfully taking a motor vehicle with the intent of keeping it from the owner.
- Larceny of motor vehicle parts is also a crime and is punishable as a class G felony if it is part of chop shop activity.
- Possession of stolen goods means knowingly possessing or receiving property that was stolen, even if the person is not the one who committed the theft.
Legal Defense Strategies for North Carolina Theft Charges
Winning a theft case means that the charges against the defendant are reduced or dismissed before trial, or the defendant receives a verdict of not guilty in court. Each case has its own unique facts, so there is no single legal strategy that works for every case. However, there are several common strategies that are frequently used successfully by Mooresville, NC defendants against theft charges. Examples include:
- The defendant had permission to possess, take, or use the other person’s property. In some cases, the defendant having a good reason to believe that they had permission may have been enough.
- Showing that the defendant is the actual owner of the property in question.
- The defendant returned the stolen property or planned to return it.
- Proving that the defendant was in a location where they could not have participated in the theft when it occurred. This is called an alibi.
- Presenting evidence such as eyewitness testimony or surveillance video that shows the crime was committed by another person.
- Challenging the evidence the prosecution has against the defendant.
- Showing misconduct or violation of the defendant’s rights by law enforcement.
FAQs
How Do You Get a Theft Charge Dismissed?
You can get a theft charge dismissed in many cases, depending on the circumstances of the offense. In general, charges can often be dismissed when there is a lack of strong evidence or when other elements of the case can be challenged. A trusted criminal defense attorney can evaluate your case for details that could be used to build a case for dismissing charges in your particular situation.
What Amount of Theft Is a Felony in NC?
In general, theft of property valued at over $1,000 can be charged as a felony in NC. However, in some cases, theft can be a felony even if the value is lower. For example, if firearms or explosives were stolen or if the defendant has four or more previous convictions for theft, the charge may be a felony regardless of the property’s value.
How Do You Fight a Theft Charge?
How you fight a theft charge can vary, depending on the individual circumstances and facts of the case. In general, you have to show that the prosecution does not have enough evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed theft. However, the most effective way to do so can vary from one case to the next. Your criminal defense attorney can help you determine the defense strategy that can most benefit you.
How Much Does a Lawyer Cost for Theft?
How much a lawyer costs for theft depends on the unique facts of the case. Some of the factors that may influence cost include whether the defendant has a prior criminal history, the severity of the charges, whether other charges are also involved, and whether the case goes to trial or can be resolved outside of court.
Aggressive Legal Representation for Mooresville Theft Suspects
The skilled and compassionate team at Griffin Law, PLLC, knows that theft offenses can have serious consequences. Our trusted criminal defense lawyer is committed to helping Mooresville residents preserve their rights and their freedom. Don’t face theft charges alone. Reach out to our office today to set up an initial consultation and learn your legal options.
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