According to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, in 2019, there were 179,665 reported cases of property crimes in the state of Pennsylvania, comprising 143,921 larceny-theft incidents. The theft of another person's property is considered a serious crime in Pennsylvania. Depending on the amount or value of the property stolen and other surrounding circumstances, a convicted defendant could face hefty fines, a lengthy prison sentence, and a criminal record.
If you have been arrested and charged with theft or larceny, it is important that you retain an aggressive Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney immediately to strategize your defense. Attorney John Della Rocca is committed to providing experienced and skilled legal representation to clients facing theft charges. As your legal counsel, I will fight vigorously to protect your rights, outline a strong defense for your case, refute the charges against you, and help you pursue the best possible outcome.
The Law Offices of John Della Rocca is proud to serve clients throughout Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as well as Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties.
In Pennsylvania, the term theft is used to describe any act that involves stealing or taking another person's property through deception or with the intent to deprive the victim of their property. 18 Pa.C.S. Section 3921 criminalizes the theft of another person's property. Under Pennsylvania law, a person is guilty of theft if they intentionally obtain or withhold another person's property by deception.
Furthermore, deception occurs when a person intentionally:
Also, a person may be guilty of theft for accepting or receiving stolen property that they know was stolen with no intention of returning the item to the lawful owner.
Generally, property in Pennsylvania is categorized into two — movable and immovable property.
Under Pennsylvania law, a person is guilty of theft for unlawfully taking or exercising unlawful control over another person's movable property with an intent to deprive the rightful owner of the property. Property is considered “movable” when its location can be changed or moved including property that is “growing on, affixed to, or found inland.” An item in a retail store is a classic example of a movable item (shoplifting or retail theft).
Under Pennsylvania law, a person is guilty of theft for unlawfully transferring or exercising unlawful control over another person's immovable property with an intent to benefit themself (the actor) or a third party who isn't entitled to the property. Real estate property is an example of immovable property.
Pennsylvania recognizes several types of theft of another person's property including:
In Pennsylvania, the punishment for theft charges usually depends on the value of the property taken and the surrounding circumstances. If convicted, possible penalties include:
If you're facing larceny accusations, your attorney may attempt to fight your charges using any one of the following defenses:
Defending your Pennsylvania theft or larceny charges by yourself could increase your risk of suffering the maximum punishment. Therefore, when facing theft charges, having an experienced Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney on your side is paramount to determine an effective defense strategy that fits your particular circumstance.
Attorney John Della Rocca has dedicated his career to providing experienced legal services and comprehensive representation in a wide range of theft cases. As a knowledgeable Pennsylvania theft defense attorney, I will investigate every detail of your case, fight vigorously to protect your rights, determine your best defense strategy, and fight the charges against you in pursuit of a favorable outcome. As your attorney, I will attempt to establish your innocence and keep your record clean.
If you or someone you know is facing theft charges, contact The Law Offices of John Della Rocca to schedule a free one-on-one case evaluation. Attorney John Della Rocca can offer you the reliable legal counsel and strong representation you need. I proudly serve clients throughout Philadelphia, Delaware County, Montgomery County, and Bucks County, Pennsylvania.