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Criminal charges

theft

A person commits the criminal offense (crime) of theft—also known as stealing—by unlawfully taking or appropriating the property of another person or entity with the intent to deprive the owner of the property.

Taking or appropriating property is generally unlawful if it is done without the owner's effective consent—for example, if the property was taken by threat, deception, or extortion.

In Colorado, theft is defined under Colorado Revised Statutes Section 18-4-401. A person commits theft when they knowingly obtain, retain, or exercise control over anything of value of another without authorization or by threat or deception, with the intent to deprive the other person permanently or temporarily of the use or benefit of the thing of value. The severity of the offense and the penalties involved depend on the value of the property taken. Theft can range from a petty offense for items valued under $50, to a class 2 misdemeanor for items valued between $50 and $300, up to a class 2 felony for items valued at $1 million or more. Enhanced penalties may apply for certain targets, such as theft from at-risk adults. Colorado law also recognizes various forms of theft including shoplifting, theft of rental property, and theft of trade secrets, each with specific provisions.

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Criminal charges

theft

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Colorado State Code

Criminal charges

theft

Colorado State Code

Articles