Even "petit" larceny puts a theft conviction on your permanent record.
General larceny—the unlawful taking of personal property belonging to another by stealth, with the intent to permanently deprive them of it—is similarly gated by the $1,000 threshold. When a defendant steals property valued below $1,000, they are prosecuted for petit larceny, a misdemeanor. The legislature recognizes the non-violent nature of this property crime, generally leaning toward probation, restitution to the victim, and community service. Nevertheless, a petit larceny conviction results in a permanent criminal record demonstrating a profound lack of moral character and untrustworthiness, directly limiting the defendant's ability to ever secure employment handling currency, sensitive financial data, or retail inventory.
Petit Larceny is a misdemeanor carrying up to 6 months in the county jail, a fine of $10 to $500, or both (21 O.S. § 1706). Despite being a misdemeanor, a theft conviction establishes a devastating crime of "moral turpitude" on your record, severely limiting your ability to find employment, rent property, or obtain professional licensing.
We challenge petit larceny charges by disputing ownership, intent, and identification. Common defenses include: genuine belief that the property was yours, lack of intent to permanently deprive (borrowing), mistaken identity, and consent of the owner. We aggressively pursue deferred sentences and expungement.
We defend petit larceny cases in courts across northeastern Oklahoma, including state, federal, and tribal jurisdictions.
A shoplifting conviction puts a theft charge on your permanent record.
The key word is "knowingly." That is where your defense begins.
Driving a vehicle you did not know was stolen should not make you a felon.
Unauthorized use is not theft, but it is still a serious criminal charge.
Schedule a free, confidential consultation. A former prosecutor will review your case and outline your best defense options.