Theft Crimes Attorney In New Jersey

Common types of theft crimes in New Jersey include:

1. Theft by Unlawful Taking

Theft by unlawful taking occurs when someone unlawfully takes or exercises control over someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. This can include physically taking an item or removing someone’s belongings without permission.

• Petty Theft: If the value of the stolen property is less than $200, the offense is considered a disorderly persons offense, which is similar to a misdemeanor in other states.
• Grand Theft: If the value of the stolen property is $200 or more, the offense is considered an indictable crime (felony) and can range from a third- to a second-degree crime depending on the value.

2. Shoplifting

Shoplifting involves taking items from a store without paying for them or underpaying by switching price tags, altering receipts, or concealing merchandise. Shoplifting charges can range from a disorderly persons offense to an indictable offense, depending on the value of the stolen goods.

• Items valued at less than $200: Disorderly persons offense, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and fines.
• Items valued at $200 to $500: Fourth-degree crime, punishable by up to 18 months in prison.
• Items valued at $500 to $75,000: Third-degree crime, punishable by 3 to 5 years in prison.
• Items valued at $75,000 or more: Second-degree crime, punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison.

3. Burglary

Burglary occurs when an individual unlawfully enters a structure, such as a home or business, with the intent to commit theft or another crime. Even if no items are stolen, the unlawful entry with intent to steal can result in burglary charges.

• Third-Degree Burglary: If no weapon is involved and no one is injured, burglary is typically charged as a third-degree crime, punishable by 3 to 5 years in prison.
• Aggravated Burglary: If a weapon is used or someone is injured during the commission of the burglary, the charges can be elevated to a second-degree crime, punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison.

4. Robbery

Robbery involves theft that is carried out with the use of force or threats of violence. It is considered a more serious offense because it involves harm or the potential for harm to the victim.

• Second-Degree Robbery: A robbery committed without a weapon but involving force or threats is charged as a second-degree crime, punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison.
• First-Degree Robbery: A robbery involving the use of a weapon or causing serious injury to the victim is charged as a first-degree crime, punishable by 10 to 20 years in prison.

5. Identity Theft

Identity theft involves unlawfully using someone else’s personal identifying information, such as their Social Security number, credit card information, or bank account details, to commit fraud or other crimes. Identity theft is often charged as a third-degree crime, with penalties including 3 to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $15,000.

6. Receiving Stolen Property

Receiving, possessing, or concealing stolen property can result in criminal charges if you knowingly accept or handle property that has been unlawfully obtained. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property in question.

• Under $200: Disorderly persons offense.
• $200 or more: Indictable offense, ranging from third- to fourth-degree crimes.