Theft and Property Crimes
A theft or property offense charge in Wisconsin can ruin your life. Whether a misunderstanding, shoplifting, or a false accusation, there are serious penalties. These include arrest, possible jail time, fines, and a criminal record that can impact your future indefinitely.
You need a highly skilled criminal defense attorney, such as Nathan J. Dineen Attorney At Law, to represent you. His assertive approach and considerable knowledge of Wisconsin law go a long way in ensuring you have quality representation.
What Are Theft and Property Crimes?
Shoplifting
In Wisconsin, shoplifting even a small item from a store is an offense. Penalties, including fines and potential jail time, vary based on the item's value and your record.
Theft of Valuable Property
Stealing a car or jewelry worth more than $2,500 is considered felony theft in Wisconsin. The elements of theft include the unlawful taking of another person's property with the intent to deprive them of it permanently.
Felony theft penalties depend on the value of the stolen property, with higher-value thefts carrying up to 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
Burglary
Under Wisconsin's burglary statute, unauthorized entry into a home or business with intent to commit theft or another felony is a serious crime.
A standard burglary sentence carries up to 12.5 years behind bars and $25,000 in fines, but penalties increase if weapons or force are involved. Under Wisconsin's persistent repeater law, the commission of burglary can also lead to life in prison for repeat offenders.
Vandalism
Harm to someone's private property, such as breaking or smashing a window, has added penalties depending on the cost of repair and the intent behind the act.
Even relatively trivial acts of damage can become significant financial burdens because of their restitution requirements. In some cases, vandalism is charged as damage to property, increasing the severity of the charges.
Robbery
Using threats or force to take personal property is a felony, with penalties increasing when violence or weapons are involved. A robbery conviction carries severe consequences due to the potential harm to victims, with armed robbery being among the most punished theft-related crimes in Wisconsin.
Police build cases quickly using security footage, witness statements, or recovered items. These forms of theft range from minor to severe, but all demand professional defense to avoid a conviction that lasts.
Why Theft and Property Crime Charges Are Serious
A theft or property offense charge is a serious legal battle with long-term consequences. Even a misdemeanor conviction leaves a mark on your record, affecting job, housing, and loan applications.
Felony charges often bring harsher penalties, including long prison terms, substantial fines, and barriers to professional licensing or international travel. Prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases, sometimes relying on evidence that does not provide the full context.
False accusations are a real concern, sometimes leading to arrest before you can explain. The legal system moves fast in many cases, making it difficult to protect your rights. Penalties can quickly add up, including restitution, court costs, probation, and community service.
Penalties for Theft and Property Crimes
Jail or Prison Time
Misdemeanor theft, such as shoplifting, carries up to 9 months in jail and fines. Felony theft penalties vary, with sentences ranging from up to 3.5 years for lower-level offenses to 12.5 years for more serious crimes like burglary.
The length of imprisonment depends on the specific criminal conduct, the value of the personal property involved, and any prior criminal history.
Fines
Misdemeanor theft offenses can result in fines of up to $10,000, while felony theft penalties vary, with fines reaching up to $25,000 depending on the severity of the crime. Additional penalties, such as restitution and court fees, can further increase the financial burden.
Restitution
Courts often order you to repay victims for stolen goods or repairs, adding financial strain beyond fines. Failing to pay restitution can always have more consequences, including violation of probation.
Probation
Even if jail is avoided, years of supervised probation with strict rules can limit your freedom and add to court costs. Probation often includes restrictions on travel and associations and requires regular check-ins with a probation officer.
Criminal Record
A conviction remains on your record indefinitely, making it harder to secure employment, housing, and immigration benefits. Felony charges carry the most severe consequences.
A criminal record may also disqualify you from professional licensure, result in license suspension, or even lead to the revocation of an existing license in some cases.
Fight Your Charges Now and Call for a Free Consultation!
Charges against you for an offense of theft are serious and require immediate action. Do not let fear, confusion, or a weak defense cost you your future.
Nathan J. Dineen is a respected criminal defense attorney known for his skill and strong dedication to protecting his clients. Call 1-877-384-6800 today for a free case review that could change everything.
