Theft Crimes

Theft of property in Alabama is divided into degrees, based primarily on the value of the property stolen:

First Degree Theft of Property: This is the most serious property theft charge and involves property valued at more than $2,500, theft of property regardless of its value when taken directly from a person (e.g., pickpocketing), or theft of a vehicle. It’s classified as a Class B felony.

Second Degree Theft of Property: This involves property valued between $1,500 and $2,500 or theft of a controlled substance. It’s classified as a Class C felony.

Third Degree Theft of Property: This is typically for property valued between $500 and $1,500 and is classified as a Class D felony.

Fourth Degree Theft of Property: This is considered the least severe form of theft, and it involves property valued at $500 or less. It is classified as a Class A misdemeanor.

Notably, Alabama does not have a separate shoplifting or retail theft law, meaning these offenses are charged under the state’s theft of property laws.

Receiving, retaining, or disposing of stolen property, knowing that it has been stolen or having reason to believe it is stolen, is also a theft crime in Alabama. This offense is also classified into four degrees based on the value of the property.

Burglary involves unlawfully entering or remaining in a dwelling, building, or vehicle with the intent to commit a crime, typically theft or a felony, inside. Thus, some, but not all, burglaries are theft crimes. Unlike theft, which can be committed without illegal entry or by deceit, burglary always involves trespassing with criminal intent. Burglary is another crime that is always considered a felony.

If you are facing allegations of theft, robbery, or burglary, it is imperative that you immediately speak with an experienced Birmingham criminal defense attorney to ensure your rights are protected. At the Stover Law Firm, P.C., we have extensive experience creating compelling defenses to even the toughest theft cases. We take great pride in helping good people find their way out of bad situations and look forward to discussing how we can help in your case. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation today, call the Stoves Law Firm, P.C. at (205) 823-7233, or you can connect with us through our secure online contact form.

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• Theft Penalties
• Defenses to Theft Crimes
• Theft – Analysis of Theft Laws
• Robbery