Theft Crimes

Detroit Theft Crime Lawyer

Under Michigan law, theft crimes are taken very seriously, and the penalties can significantly impact your personal freedom and professional opportunities. A theft conviction can lead to jail time, hefty fines, and a lasting criminal record, affecting your ability to secure employment, housing, or loans.

Beyond the legal penalties, the stigma of being labeled a thief can damage your reputation and relationships, making it crucial to mount a strong defense against theft-related charges.

At The Law Offices of David I. Lee, we understand what is at stake. Our firm is committed to providing fierce and strategic legal representation to protect your rights and fight for your future.

Request a free consultation with our Detroit theft crime attorney by calling (313) 824-3497 or contacting us online.

Common Theft Crimes in Michigan

Michigan’s laws classify theft crimes in several categories, depending on the property's value and the offense's circumstances. Below are some common Michigan theft crimes and penalties.

Larceny (MCL 750.356): If the stolen property is valued between $1,000 and $20,000, it is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000 or three times the value of the stolen property, whichever is greater. If the value exceeds $20,000, it is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000 or three times the value, whichever is greater.
Retail fraud (shoplifting) (MCL 750.356c): First-degree retail fraud occurs when the stolen goods are valued at $1,000 or more. It can result in penalties of up to five years in prison and/or fines up to $10,000 or three times the value of the stolen goods.
Receiving and concealing stolen property (MCL 750.535):
- If valued under $200, it is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail.
- If valued between $200 and $1,000, it is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail.
- If valued between $1,000 and $20,000, it is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000 or three times the value.
- If valued over $20,000, it is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $15,000 or three times the value.
Auto theft (MCL 750.413): Stealing a motor vehicle is punishable by up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
Embezzlement (MCL 750.174): For theft of property or funds between $1,000 and $20,000, an offender may face up to five years in prison and/or fines up to $10,000 or three times the value stolen. Higher amounts lead to increased penalties, including potential sentences of up to 10 or 20 years for larger embezzlements.
Identity theft (MCL 445.65): Using someone’s personal data without their consent is a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and/or fines of up to $25,000. Subsequent convictions can lead to enhanced penalties.

The severity of theft crimes often increases with aggravating factors, such as prior convictions or theft from a vulnerable individual, such as a senior or a disabled person.

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Notable Cases

Our top priority is to devise customized legal strategies that are tailored to the unique legal needs of our clients, no matter how simple or complicated their situations, might be.

PA Boys and BMF – U.S. District Court (Judge Nancy Edmunds, Judge Avern Cohn)
David represented Sherrod King in a large-scale drug conspiracy before Judge Nancy Edmunds,(03-80981, ED Mich, Judge Edmunds). King was a well-known Detroit rapper and an alleged member of the so-called “P.A. Boys.”
People v. Govender (Judge Patricia Fresard, Wayne County Circuit Court)
David successfully represented an accomplished nurse in People v. Govender. In this case, Govender had killed her infant son and attempted suicide in a rage of postpartum psychosis.
People V. Terri Sutton, (Judge Paula Humphries)
David represented Terri Sutton, the first of two 911 operators ever to be charged criminally in the United States. The case involved a young boy who called 911 after his mother had died. It was later determined that two operators acted criminally in the handling of the boy’s calls.
United States v. Abro, 93-80140, ED Mich (Judge Barbara Hackett)
In 1993, David obtained his first federal not guilty verdict in the case of United States v. Abro, et al. This win came in the wake of David’s 20 consecutive “not guilty” state court verdicts.
United States V. Baily, (Judge Julian Cook)
David represented a defendant in the “La Shish Restaurant” case, which included allegations of conspiracy to defraud the federal government, tax evasion and money laundering involving a well-known chain of restaurants, its employees and owner.
United States V. Bartkus (Judge Gerald Rosen)
In 1989, David tried his first Federal case, United States v. Bartkus, wherein he represented the only defendant in this multi-defendant case to go to trial.

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How The Law Offices of David I. Lee Can Help

Facing theft crime charges can be daunting and stressful. Our firm takes a proactive and comprehensive approach to defending clients by meticulously examining every case detail.

We do the following:

Investigate the charges: We scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence, looking for inconsistencies or errors in the investigation process that could weaken their case.
Explore legal defenses: Whether proving lack of intent, ownership disputes, or mistaken identity, we tailor defenses specific to your circumstances.

Negotiate with prosecutors: We work to reduce charges or penalties, exploring alternative sentencing options like restitution agreements or community programs to minimize consequences.
Challenge evidence: If evidence was obtained illegally or violates your rights, we file motions to suppress it, which can lead to case dismissals.
Provide skilled trial representation: If your case goes to trial, we work to build an effective defense and advocate powerfully for you in court.

Our attorney has extensive experience defending clients against theft charges, both misdemeanor and felony, and understands the nuances of Michigan’s theft statutes. We fight to achieve the best possible outcome for every client, whether that means a dismissal, reduced charge, or acquittal.

Call (313) 824-3497 or complete our online contact form to consult our Detroit theft attorney today.

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Why Choose The Law Offices of David I. Lee?

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