Understanding How the Classes of Felony Theft Crimes Work
In Colorado, felony theft, also known as grand larceny, occurs when someone intentionally steals property valued at $2,000 or more. These crimes involve harsh penalties and steep fines of up to $1,000,000 if convicted. If you are facing felony theft charges, it is essential to obtain the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect yourself against these allegations.
Felony Theft Classes in Colorado
Colorado has a range of felony theft classifications. Each one corresponds with the value of the stolen property. The greater the value of the stolen property, the more severe the penalties become if convicted. Here is an overview of felony theft classes in Colorado:
- Class 6 Felony: You could face a Class 6 felony charge if the value of the items you stole totaled $2,000 but was less than $5,000. If convicted, you could receive one to one and a half years in state prison and owe between $1,000 and $100,000 in fines.
- Class 5 Felony: You could face a Class 5 felony charge if the value of the items you stole totaled $5,000 but was less than $20,000. If convicted, you could receive one to three years in prison and owe between $1,000 and $100,000 in fines.
- Class 4 Felony: You could face a Class 4 felony charge if the value of the items you stole totaled $20,000 but was less than $100,000. If convicted, you could receive two to six years in prison and owe between $2,000 and $500,000 in fines.
- Class 3 Felony: You could face a Class 5 felony charge if the value of the items you stole totaled $100,000 but was less than $1,000,000. If convicted, you could receive four to 12 years in prison and owe between $3,000 and $750,000 in fines.
- Class 2 Felony: You could face a Class 2 felony charge if the value of the items you stole totaled $1,000,000 or more. If convicted, you could receive eight to 24 years in prison and owe between $5,000 and $1,000,000 in fines.
Your chances of obtaining a more favorable outcome will improve with the help of skilled legal representation, so it is important to seek a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
Factors Affecting Sentencing
Many factors have the potential to impact sentencing in a felony theft case. These are some mitigating and aggravating circumstances that could play a role in the sentence you receive, such as:
- You do not have a history of criminal behavior
- You committed the crime under great stress
- No one was harmed, and it is unlikely anyone could have been harmed
- You were not the main actor
- You used a weapon while committing the crime
- You caused serious bodily injury to someone while committing the crime
- Whether or not you feel remorse
A knowledgeable Summit County criminal defense attorney will navigate your case and advocate on your behalf.
Reach Out to Our Skilled Criminal Defense Team in Breckenridge for the Help You Need
Developing a tailored defense strategy is vital if you are facing felony theft charges in Colorado. An experienced Colorado criminal defense lawyer will challenge the evidence in your case and raise questions in your defense. At Whitaker & Penix, LLC in Breckenridge, our criminal defense team has over a decade of combined experience. We will provide the strong defense and sound legal advice you need to come out on top. Contact our law office today at (970) 368-0602 to schedule a free consultation and get started on protecting your future.