Grand theft is a serious crime in Utah that involves unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Unlike petty theft, grand theft involves higher-value property or certain types of items, such as vehicles, firearms, or controlled substances. Under Utah Code § 76-6-404, grand theft is categorized based on the value of the stolen property, with more severe penalties for higher-value thefts or aggravating circumstances.
Salt Lake City Grand Theft Defense Attorney
You can be charged with grand theft for stealing a car worth less than $1000 or misappropriating funds from work. Regardless of the case, Sussan Gustin is here for you.
Call Susanne Gustin, Attorney at Law at 801-243-2814 or submit an online form to schedule a confidential consultation. Susanne Gustin, Attorney at Law strongly represents individuals facing sex crime charges throughout Salt Lake County and Davis County, including Salt Lake City, West Valley City, Layton, Bountiful, West Jordan, Sandy, and surrounding communities.
Information Center for Grand Theft in Utah
- What is Grand Theft in Utah
- Penalties for Grand Theft in Utah
- Defenses Against Grand Theft in Utah
- Additional Resources
What is Grand Theft in Utah?
Grand theft is theft of property or assets that exceed a specific value threshold or fall into certain protected categories. Utah law defines theft as obtaining or exercising control over another’s property without authorization and with intent to deprive the owner of it. The penalties correspond with the worth of the property that was stolen. Utah Code § 76-6-404 states as follows:
An actor commits theft if the actor obtains or exercises unauthorized control over another person’s property with a purpose to deprive the person of the person’s property.
Some common examples of grand theft include:
- Vehicle Theft: Stealing a car, motorcycle, or truck regardless of its value.
- High-Value Jewelry or Electronics: Taking items like diamonds, gold, or expensive devices worth thousands of dollars.
- Firearms Theft: Stealing a firearm, which is considered a serious offense in Utah regardless of its value.
- Large-Scale Shoplifting: Taking high-value goods from retail stores, such as designer clothing or electronics.
- Embezzlement: Misappropriating funds or property from an employer or organization.
Penalties for Grand Theft in Utah
The penalties for grand theft depend on the value of the stolen property or assets and the specific circumstances of the crime. Utah uses a tiered system to classify theft offenses based on value:
Class A Misdemeanor:
- Value: $500 to $1,500.
- Penalties:
- Up to 1 year in jail and
- Fines up to $2,500.
Third-Degree Felony:
- Value: $1,500 to $5,000.
- Penalties:
- Up to 5 years in prison and
- Fines up to $5,000.
Second-Degree Felony:
- Value: $5,000 to $10,000 or theft involving firearms or large-scale embezzlement.
- Penalties:
- Up to 15 years in prison and
- Fines up to $10,000.
First-Degree Felony:
- Value: Over $10,000 or theft involving life-threatening circumstances.
- Penalties:
- Up to life in prison and
- Fines up to $10,000.
Defenses Against Grand Theft Charges
Several defenses may be applicable to grand theft charges in Utah, depending on the circumstances of the case:
- Lack of Intent: The defendant did not intend to permanently deprive the owner of their property. For example, they believed they had permission to use the item.
- Mistaken Identity: The defendant was wrongly identified as the perpetrator of the theft.
- Ownership Dispute: The defendant may argue that the property in question belonged to them or that they had a rightful claim to it.
- Consent: The defendant may argue that the property was given to them willingly by the owner.
Additional Resources
- Utah Code § 76-6-404: Grand theft is a serious crime in Utah that involves unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.
- Theft and Property Crimes: Even for first-time offenders, theft and property crime allegations are serious charges. For second and third offenses, penalties are far more severe.
Criminal Defense Lawyer for Grand Theft Charges in Salt Lake County, Utah
Grand theft is a serious crime with severe consequences, but being charged does not mean a conviction is inevitable.
Susanne Gustin, Attorney at Law, has decades of experience defending clients against theft-related charges in Utah. She is committed to helping her clients achieve the best possible outcomes, whether through negotiations, reduced charges, or fighting the case in court.
For a consultation, contact Susanne Gustin at 801-243-2814. She serves clients in Salt Lake County, Davis County, Layton, Bountiful, Clearfield, North Salt Lake, Centerville, Woods Cross, West Point, and Kaysville.
