Theft and property crimes are divided into categories depending on the offense and the value of the stolen goods. Each category comes with a different set of penalties for the offender. If you have a property crime charge, it is crucial to understand the differences between them. A grand theft conviction will have different consequences than a petty theft.
Petty theft crimes
The value of the stolen goods usually determines the property crime category. In South Dakota, petty theft is a misdemeanor with two categories: first and second-degree, differentiated as follows:
- First-degree petty theft includes stolen goods valued at less than $1,000 and over $400.
- Second-degree petty theft includes stolen goods valued at less than $400.
Petty theft is not as severe as other property crime categories. Still, you should take all criminal charges seriously. Misdemeanors have fewer penalties than felonies, but the consequences might be more severe if you have previous convictions. A legal counselor can evaluate your options depending on the property crime you are charged with.
Grand theft crimes
Grand theft crimes are classified as class 1 to 6 felonies, depending on their severity. For a crime to be a grand theft, the value of the stolen property must be $1,000 or more. However, if it exceeds $500,000, the crime is an aggravated grand theft, a class two felony.
These offenses have severe consequences. A class two felony can include up to 25 years of jail time and a fine. At the other end of the spectrum, a class six felony can consist of two years of imprisonment, a $4,000 fine or both. Additionally, the court might also order the restitution of the stolen goods.
A property crime charge can bring long-term consequences to the offender. That is why it is crucial to understand the crime category and its implications. Working with an attorney who understands South Dakota’s theft laws can be helpful for your case.