Facing Theft and Property Crime Charges in St. Paul? Let Jack Rice Defense Fight for You
By Sullivan Rice
Understanding Theft and Property Crimes in Minnesota
Minnesota sees over 150,000 property crimes annually, with more than 100,000 involving theft, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Burglary alone accounts for over 25,000 offenses. State laws strictly penalize individuals accused of theft, damage, or trespassing, whether the property in question is tangible—like vehicles and land—or intangible, such as telecommunications services or personal identities. A conviction can mean severe consequences, including jail time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record.
If you’re facing shoplifting, theft, or other property crime charges, don’t wait—contact Jack Rice Defense for a free and confidential consultation today.
“Shoplifting is a real criminal offense that can lead to a conviction and a permanent mark on your record.”
Why Choose Jack Rice Defense?
As a St. Paul theft and property crime attorney, Jack Rice is dedicated to securing favorable outcomes for his clients. With a deep understanding of prosecutorial tactics, he crafts strong defenses to protect your rights. Serving Ramsey County, Hennepin County, Dakota County, and the broader Twin Cities area, he’s here to fight for you.
Call (651) 447-7650 or (612) 227-1339 to schedule your free consultation today.
Understanding Theft Charges in Ramsey County
Minnesota law defines theft broadly, covering various offenses involving property. Under Minnesota Statute 609.52, you may be charged with theft if you:
Take, use, transfer, or conceal property without the owner’s consent.
Obtain property or services through deception or fraud.
Fail to return lost property or rented items.
Use property or services without proper authorization (e.g., cable theft).
Drive or take a motor vehicle without the owner’s permission.
Potential Penalties for Theft in Minnesota
The consequences of a theft conviction depend on the value of the stolen property:
Under $500 (Misdemeanor Theft / Shoplifting): Up to 90 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both.
$500 - $1,000: Up to 1 year in jail, $3,000 in fines, or both.
$1,000 - $5,000: Up to 5 years in prison, $10,000 in fines, or both.
$5,000 - $35,000: Up to 10 years in prison, $20,000 in fines, or both.
Over $35,000: Up to 20 years in prison, $100,000 in fines, or both.
Certain specialized thefts—such as stealing firearms, explosives, or trade secrets—carry even harsher penalties, with sentences of up to 20 years in prison.
Other Theft-Related Offenses in Minnesota
Minnesota law recognizes numerous crimes beyond direct theft, including:
Possession of stolen property
Identity theft & mail theft
Embezzlement of public funds
Possessing shoplifting tools
Receiving stolen property (precious metals, scrap metals, etc.)
“The impact of a theft charge goes beyond prison time—it can affect your career, reputation, and future.”
Property Crimes Under Minnesota Law
Property crimes involve unlawful actions against another’s property, such as:
Arson: Intentional burning, classified by severity based on damage and potential risk to life.
Burglary: Unlawful entry into a building to commit a crime, ranked by degree.
Criminal Damage to Property: Intentional destruction or damage, with penalties scaling based on severity.
Trespassing: Generally a misdemeanor, but can escalate to a gross misdemeanor under specific circumstances (e.g., trespassing on emergency shelter property).
Protect Your Future—Call Jack Rice Defense Today
If you're facing theft or property crime charges in St. Paul, understanding your legal options is crucial. Jack Rice Defense is committed to aggressively defending your rights and securing the best possible outcome for your case.
