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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 Pennsylvania, theft is defined under Title 18, Section 3921 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. A person is guilty of theft if they unlawfully take, or exercise unlawful control over, movable property of another with intent to deprive them thereof. Theft can also occur with immovable property when the person transfers or exercises unlawful control over the property of another with the intent to benefit themselves or another not entitled to it. The lack of the owner's effective consent is key, and consent obtained by deception, coercion, or if given by a person who is not legally able to give consent, is not effective. The severity of the offense and the penalties upon conviction can vary widely depending on the value of the property stolen and other circumstances, ranging from a summary offense to a felony. Enhanced penalties may apply for theft from a motor vehicle, receiving stolen property, retail theft, or theft of services.

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Criminal charges

theft

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Pennsylvania State Code

Pennsylvania State Code

Criminal charges

theft

Articles