A person commits the criminal offense of receiving stolen property if the person buys or receives any property knowing that it has been stolen. Laws regarding receiving stolen property vary from state to state and some states also make it a crime to receive property obtained by extortion, or to conceal, sell, withhold, or aid in concealing, selling, or withholding any property from the owner, knowing the property was stolen or obtained by extortion, for example.

The criminal offense of receiving stolen property may be charged as a misdemeanor or as a felony in many states (a wobbler offense)—usually depending on the value of the stolen property.

Laws regarding receiving stolen property are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.

In California, the crime of receiving stolen property is codified under Penal Code Section 496(a). A person is guilty of this offense if they buy, receive, conceal, sell, or withhold any property, knowing it to be stolen or obtained by theft or extortion. The determination of whether the offense is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony (making it a 'wobbler' offense) typically depends on the value of the property received. If the value of the stolen property is $950 or less, the crime is generally charged as a misdemeanor. If the value exceeds $950, it can be charged as a felony. The penalties for receiving stolen property in California can include imprisonment, fines, probation, and restitution to the victim. It is important for individuals accused of this crime to consult with an attorney to understand their rights and the specific implications of the charges they face.