Theft and larceny charges in Chesapeake cover everything from shoplifting a small item from a retail store to grand larceny involving thousands of dollars. Even a misdemeanor theft conviction can follow you for a long time — appearing on background checks and affecting your ability to find work or housing. A felony theft conviction can be far more damaging. At Inman & Strickler, P.L.C., we take every theft case seriously, no matter the amount involved.
Our Chesapeake criminal defense attorneys will review the evidence against you, challenge the prosecution’s case where possible, and work toward a result that protects your record and your future.
In Virginia, larceny is classified based on the value of what was allegedly taken. Petit larceny — theft of items valued under $1,000 — is a Class 1 misdemeanor, though a second conviction becomes a Class 6 felony. Grand larceny — theft of $1,000 or more, or theft of a firearm regardless of value — is a felony punishable by one to 20 years in prison.
Related charges such as robbery (which involves force or threat), burglary (entering a building with intent to commit a crime), and embezzlement are prosecuted as felonies with serious penalties.
Theft charges often rely on witness testimony, store surveillance footage, or circumstantial evidence. These types of evidence are not always as clear-cut as prosecutors would like. Our attorneys will scrutinize the evidence carefully and explore every available defense.
- Lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner of property
- Mistaken identity or misidentification
- Ownership or claim of right to the property
- Insufficient or unreliable surveillance evidence
- Constitutional violations in how evidence was gathered
Virginia courts sometimes offer first-offender programs for individuals charged with petit larceny for the first time. Completing a diversion program can result in the charge being dismissed. Our attorneys can advise you on whether you may qualify and guide you through the process.
For related legal topics, visit our main Chesapeake criminal defense page, our drug charge defense page, our assault defense page, or contact us directly through our Chesapeake criminal defense contact page.
Do not assume a theft charge will simply go away on its own. Call Inman & Strickler, P.L.C. at 757-486-7055 today to discuss your options and start building your defense.
