Learn More About Felony Theft in Arizona

Under Arizona law, a person may be found guilty of theft if the person takes or controls another person's property or steals services from another person with the intent to deprive the other person of such property permanently. Property can mean cash, tangible items, precious metals, services, and animals. Arizona theft laws are very strict, and theft involving property with a value of $1,000 or more is considered a felony.

Different Levels of Felony Theft

Arizona law classifies theft crimes based on the property or service's value. Examples of varying degrees of felony theft crimes include, but may not be limited to, the following:

• Theft of property or services valued at $25,000 or more – class 2 felony.
• Theft of property or services valued at $4,000 or more, but less than $25,000 – class 3 felony.
• Theft of property or services valued at $3,000 or more, but less than $4,000 – class 4 felony.
• Theft of property or services valued at $2,000 or more but less than $3,000 – class 5 felony.
• Theft of property taken from another person, theft of a firearm, or theft of an animal taken for dog-fighting purposes – class 6 felony.

Under Arizona law, theft of property or services valued at less than $1,000 is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Defenses to Felony Theft

Because theft is a very serious crime, it is important for every person facing a theft charge to fully understand their available defenses. For example, if an alleged stolen item was given to an accused person as a gift or the item was borrowed, such facts can be presented in defense of the felony theft charges. Another potential defense to felony theft charges is the violation of constitutional rights, such as a police officer's failure to read Miranda rights to a person arrested on felony theft charges. Each situation will have its own set of facts and circumstances, and visiting with an experienced criminal defense attorney can help ensure that your legal rights remain protected.

Penalties Resulting From a Felony Theft Conviction

The most serious felony theft charge – a class 2 felony, results in a potential prison sentence of 10 years, the maximum. However, if mitigating or aggravating circumstances exist, the prison sentence may be reduced or enhanced accordingly. Additional felony theft convictions result in the following potential prison sentences (which is the maximum for each charge):

• Class 2 Felony – 10 Years
• Class 3 Felony – 7 Years
• Class 4 Felony – 3 Years
• Class 5 Felony – 2 Years
• Class 6 Felony – 1.5 Years

The above-listed penalties apply to first-time felony offenders. Individuals with prior felony convictions may face even harsher prison sentences. Additionally, the loss of some constitutional rights following a felony conviction can be difficult for convicted individuals after serving their prison sentences. Therefore, working with a qualified criminal defense attorney is important to consider following an arrest for any crime.

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Phoenix, Arizona

If you have been charged with felony theft in Arizona, you may have limited time to protect your rights. To ensure you receive the legal representation that you deserve, consider contacting a skilled Arizona criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Serving clients since 1987, Chuck Franklin Law is ready to provide you with a free consultation to discuss your situation.