Butler Theft Lawyer

Taking someone else’s property without their consent and without intending to return it is considered theft under Pennsylvania law. Theft charges can vary depending on how the property was taken—if no force or weapons were involved, it is classified as theft, while using force or a weapon may lead to robbery or other more serious charges.

The severity of a theft charge often depends on the value of the stolen property. Higher-value thefts may be charged as felony theft, while lower-value offenses may be considered misdemeanor theft. Multiple offenses or thefts involving certain circumstances—such as shoplifting, fraud, or embezzlement—can also impact the charges and potential penalties.

If you are facing theft charges in Butler County, the attorneys at Benjamin Levine Law can help. Our experienced criminal defense team will explain your charges, outline possible penalties, and build a strong defense to protect your rights.

Types of Theft

Theft crimes in Pennsylvania cover a wide range of offenses, each with its own legal definition and potential penalties. The severity of the charge depends on factors like the value of the stolen property, how it was taken, and whether force or deception was involved.

Some of the most common types of theft include:

• Theft by Unlawful Taking – Physically taking someone else’s property without permission.
• Theft by Deception – Obtaining property by misleading or deceiving the owner.
• Retail Theft (Shoplifting) – Stealing from a store by concealing items, altering price tags, or under-ringing at checkout.
• Receiving Stolen Property – Possessing or buying property that you know or should have known was stolen.
• Theft of Services – Using or obtaining services (such as utilities, transportation, or accommodations) without paying.
• Identity Theft – Using someone else’s personal information without consent for financial gain.
• Auto Theft (Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle) – Taking or operating a vehicle without the owner’s permission.
• Embezzlement – Stealing money or property entrusted to you, often in a workplace setting.
• Robbery – Using force, intimidation, or a weapon to steal property directly from another person.

Each type of theft carries unique legal consequences, ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. If you’ve been accused of theft in Butler County, Benjamin Levine Law can help you understand the charges against you and fight for the best possible outcome.

Penalties for Theft

The penalties for theft in Pennsylvania depend on the value of the stolen property, the circumstances of the crime, and whether the accused has prior offenses. Theft charges can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies, carrying fines, probation, and even significant jail time.

General Theft Penalties

• Theft of property worth less than $50 – Summary offense, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $300 fine.
• Theft of property worth $50 to $199 – Third-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a $2,500 fine.
• Theft of property worth $200 to $1,999 – Second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 2 years in jail and a $5,000 fine.
• Theft of property worth $2,000 or more – First-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 5 years in jail and a $10,000 fine.

Felony Theft Offenses

• Theft of property worth $2,000 or more, or theft involving a motor vehicle – Third-degree felony, punishable by up to 7 years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
• Theft of firearms or property taken during a natural disaster – Second-degree felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
• Theft involving extortion or stolen property worth over $500,000 – First-degree felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.

Additional Consequences

Beyond fines and incarceration, a theft conviction can have long-term effects, including a criminal record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses, and civil liability for stolen property.

If you are facing theft charges in Butler County, Benjamin Levine Law is here to help. Our experienced defense attorneys can assess your case, explain your options, and build a strong defense to protect your future.

Speak to a Butler Theft Attorney Today

Choosing the appropriate defense depends heavily on the facts and circumstances of your case. After examining your charges, a Butler theft lawyer could help determine the best course of action.

Schedule a consultation with Benjamin Levine Law today to start planning your defense with a hardworking and highly skilled attorney.