Select your state

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 Michigan, theft, also referred to as larceny, is defined under Michigan Penal Code (MCL 750.356) as the act of stealing property from another person with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property. The severity of the charge and the potential penalties depend on the value of the property stolen. Theft of property valued at less than $200 is considered a misdemeanor, which can result in fines and up to 93 days in jail. As the value of the stolen property increases, so do the potential penalties, with theft of property valued at $1,000 or more being a felony, potentially leading to significant fines and several years in prison. Theft by deception, threat, or extortion are specific forms of theft that are also illegal under Michigan law, and they are prosecuted based on the same value thresholds. It is important to note that consent obtained through deceptive means is not considered effective consent, and taking property under such pretenses is unlawful.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Criminal charges

theft

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Michigan State Code

Michigan State Code

Criminal charges

theft

Articles