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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 Rhode Island, theft, also referred to as larceny, is defined under Rhode Island General Laws Section 11-41-1 as the unlawful taking, converting, or appropriating of property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of its use or possession. The severity of the charge can range from petty theft, which typically involves property of a lower value, to grand theft for higher value items. The law considers theft to be a crime against property and it can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the value of the property stolen and the circumstances of the crime. Theft by deception, extortion, or without the owner's effective consent are all recognized as forms of theft under Rhode Island law. Penalties for theft can include fines, restitution to the victim, community service, probation, and imprisonment.

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Criminal charges

theft

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Rhode-Island State Code

Rhode-Island State Code

Criminal charges

theft

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