There are several common property crimes in Oklahoma, and property crimes make up a large portion of criminal cases in Oklahoma. These offenses involve taking, damaging, or interfering with someone else’s property. While some property crimes are misdemeanors, many are felonies that carry serious consequences such as jail time, restitution, and a permanent criminal record.
Theft and Larceny
Oklahoma law defines larceny as the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.
- Petit larceny – property valued under $1,000, usually a misdemeanor.
- Grand larceny – property valued at $1,000 or more, or theft directly from another person, usually charged as a felony.
Burglary
Burglary occurs when someone unlawfully enters a home, business, or other structure with the intent to commit a crime inside.
- First-degree burglary – involves breaking into an occupied home, often at night. This is a felony with harsh penalties.
- Second-degree burglary – involves breaking into an unoccupied structure, like a storage unit or business.
Robbery
Unlike larceny, robbery involves taking property directly from a person using force or threats.
- First-degree robbery – occurs when serious force, a weapon, or injury is involved.
- Second-degree robbery – involves threats or intimidation without serious harm.
Arson
Arson is the intentional burning of property, whether it is a home, business, vehicle, or other structure. Depending on the severity, arson can be charged as a felony with prison time and large fines.
Vandalism and Malicious Injury to Property
Destroying or damaging property that belongs to someone else is considered malicious injury to property. This can range from spray-painting graffiti to breaking windows or damaging a vehicle. Penalties often depend on the dollar value of the damage.
Shoplifting
Shoplifting is one of the most common property crimes. Even though it may involve low-value items, repeat offenses or high-value thefts can lead to felony charges.
Penalties for Property Crimes in Oklahoma
Although consequences depend on the type of crime and the value of the property involved, they may include:
- Jail or prison time
- Fines and court costs
- Restitution (repaying the victim)
- Probation or community service
- A permanent criminal record
Courts take property crimes seriously, so penalties can be severe.
Tulsa Criminal Defense Lawyers
Property crimes can carry serious long-term consequences, even for first-time offenders. If you are facing charges for theft, burglary, robbery, arson, vandalism, or another property crime in Oklahoma, you need experienced legal representation. Get a Free consultation with the attorneys at Tulsa Criminal Lawyers Law Firm by calling us at 918.416.0358 or you can click here to ask a free criminal defense question online.