Maricopa County Felony Theft Penalties

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer Aggressively Representing the Interests of Clients in Tempe, Scottsdale, Chandler, and the Surrounding Areas

If you’ve been charged with a felony in Maricopa County, it’s essential that you understand what’s on the line. It’s also imperative that you do everything possible to avoid a felony conviction, which can forever change your life. At the Law Office of James E. Novak, we are committed to protecting your future and your freedom. Attorney Novak has more than 25 years of experience aggressively defending the rights of clients who found themselves in situations much like the one you find yourself in right now.

Read on to learn more about the various Maricopa County felony theft penalties.

Types of Maricopa County Felonies

In Arizona, there are six types of felonies, with a Class 6 felony being the least serious and a Class 1 felony being the most serious.

Class 6 Felony Theft

A Class 6 felony theft involves stolen property valued between $1,000 and $2,000. It is the least severe felony theft charge but still carries significant penalties. For a Class 6 felony theft, you could face a prison sentence ranging from 4 months to 2 years, along with fines up to $150,000. Probation is possible, depending on the circumstances of the case.

Example: Imagine you are accused of stealing electronic devices from a store, with the total value amounting to $1,500. This would be classified as a Class 6 felony theft.

Class 5 Felony Theft

Class 5 felony theft involves stolen property valued between $2,000 and $3,000. It carries harsher penalties than a Class 6 felony. If convicted of a Class 5 felony theft, you could be sentenced to prison for 6 months to 2.5 years, with fines reaching up to $150,000. Probation may be an option, depending on the specifics of your case.

Example: Suppose you are charged with stealing a high-end bicycle valued at $2,500. This theft would be considered a Class 5 felony.

Class 4 Felony Theft

Class 4 felony theft involves stolen property valued between $3,000 and $4,000. The penalties for this offense are more severe. A conviction for a Class 4 felony theft can result in a prison sentence of 1 to 3.75 years and fines up to $150,000. Probation is possible, depending on the case’s details.

Example: Consider a situation where you are accused of stealing construction equipment valued at $3,500. This would be categorized as a Class 4 felony theft.

Class 3 Felony Theft

Class 3 felony theft involves stolen property valued between $4,000 and $25,000. This offense is significantly more serious and carries stiffer penalties. For a Class 3 felony theft, you could be sentenced to prison for 2 to 8.75 years, and face fines up to $150,000. Probation may be possible, depending on the circumstances of your case.

Example: If you are charged with stealing a car valued at $20,000, this would be considered a Class 3 felony theft.

Class 2 Felony Theft

Class 2 felony theft involves stolen property valued between $25,000 and $100,000. This is one of the most serious theft charges in Arizona. If convicted of a Class 2 felony theft, you could face a prison sentence of 3 to 12.5 years and fines up to $150,000. Due to the severity of the charge, probation is unlikely.

Example: Imagine you are accused of embezzling $50,000 from your employer. This would be classified as a Class 2 felony theft.

Class 1 Felony Theft

Class 1 felonies are the most severe charges and are typically reserved for the most serious offenses, often involving multiple major crimes. While not typically associated with theft alone, theft can be part of a larger Class 1 felony charge involving additional crimes. Penalties for a Class 1 felony can include life imprisonment or even the death penalty in extreme cases involving other serious crimes, with fines up to $150,000. Probation is not available for any Class 1 felony theft offense.

Example: A theft as part of a larger criminal enterprise involving significant financial fraud or organized crime activities could potentially fall under a Class 1 felony.

Work With an Experienced Maricopa County Theft Crimes Lawyer to Beat Your Case

At the Law Office of James E. Novak, we understand the serious consequences that come with felony theft charges and are ready to do whatever it takes to reduce the chances of a criminal conviction. Our team is dedicated to providing you with a compelling defense, tailored to the specifics of your case. We will thoroughly investigate the charges against you, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome. If you are facing felony theft charges in Maricopa County, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact the Law Office of James E. Novak today for a free consultation. To learn more, and to schedule your free consultation today, call 480-413-1499. You can also connect with us through our secure online contact form.