Theft

There are many types of “Theft” in Washington State. These types include Simple Theft, Theft of a Firearm, Theft with Intent to Resell, Organized Retail Theft, Identity Theft, Taking a Motor Vehicle without Permission, and Possession of Stolen Property, as well as forceful theft (Robbery). This page deals with Simple Theft. Generally, theft is "the unlawful acquisition or exertion of unauthorized control over another’s property/services with intent to deprive the owner of such property or services OR to obtain by color or aid of deception, OR to appropriate lost or misdelivered property or services of another w/ intent to deprive him of such property or service." This means taking something, getting something by false means, or keeping property that is known to belong to someone else. Recently, the dollar value (and therefore punishment) levels for theft have changed. First Degree Theft (RCW 9A.56.030 – Class B Felony) is the commission of theft of:

• a) Property or services valued at greater than $5000 (which is not a vehicle or firearm); or
• b) Property of any value taken from the person of another (again not a vehicle or firearm) or
  • a. Note this is very close to Robbery
• c) A search and rescue dog, while that dog is on duty

Second Degree Theft (RCW 9A.56.040 – Class C Felony) is the commission of theft of:

• a) Property or services valued more than $750 but not more than $5000 (which is not a vehicle or firearm); or
• b) A public record, writing, or instrument kept, filed, or deposited according to law with or in the keeping of any public office or public servant; or
• c) An access device (any card, plate, code, account number, or other means of account access that can be used alone or in conjunction with another access device to obtain money, goods, services, or anything else of value, or that can be used to initiate a transfer of funds, other than a transfer originated solely by paper instrument)

Third Degree Theft (RCW 9A.56.050 – Gross Misdemeanor) is the theft of property or services which:

• a) Does not exceed $750 (including items of zero value); or
• b) Includes ten or more merchandise pallets, or ten or more beverage crates, or a combination of ten or more merchandise pallets and beverage crates

Third Degree Theft is typically a shoplifting charge. Ashbach Law Offices, LLC has extensive history successfully representing clients in theft charges, from First Degree through Third Degree Theft, often achieving non-conviction results such as dismissals. If you, or someone you care about, has been charged (or may be) with Theft in King County, Skagit County, Snohomish County, or Whatcom County, call Ashbach Law Offices, LLC today at (360) 659-4950 for a free, no-pressure case evaluation. With a reputation in the legal community as aggressive, effective and successful criminal defense attorneys, we are here to help you through your difficult times.