Generally, theft occurs when someone intentionally takes something from another without justificaiton.   However, there are many different kinds of thefts that can prosecuted in the State of Minnesota.

Acts Considered Theft

There are numerous acts that are considered theft, including the following:

• The taking, using, transferring, or concealing of movable property without the consent of the property owner with the intent of depriving the owner of their property.
• Obtaining property or service by swindling, by trick, artifice, or other fraud.
• Finding lost property and keeping it despite reasonable means to identify the owner and return the property to them. A reasonable effort must be made to find the owner.
• Obtaining property or services without making a monetary deposit. For instance, obtaining services from a machine without depositing cash or tokens.
• With intent to defraud, diverting coporate property.
• Converting a trade secret into something in which money is gained.
• Transferring, possessing or using another’s identity

Possession Of Shoplifting Gear

If a person is found to be in possession of gear used in shoplifting, such as tools used to defeat a surveillance system, they are guilty of theft even if the theft did not occur.  The intent to commit theft is enough.

Receiving Stolen Property

Any person who receives property that is stolen and knows  or has reason to know that that property is stolen is guilty of a crime.

Minnesota Mail Theft

Any time a person removes mail from a depository that is not their own, intentionally takes mail from a mail carrier that is not their own, or obtains mail through deception, is guilty of mail theft in Minnesota. It is also a crime to remove mail from an envelope that is addressed to someone else.

Stolen And Counterfeit Checks

A person who possesses, receives, sells, or transfers a stolen or counterfeit check and who is fully aware of their actions is guilty of a crime in Minnesota.

Minneapolis Theft Attorneys And Defense Lawyers

If you have been charged with theft in Minnesota, you need a Minnesota theft attorney to help you in your case.

Contact criminal defense attorney James Sheehy today at 612-341-1011 for your free initial consultation.  It is important that you know your rights so that you can get the best outcome in your case.