Northeastern Pennsylvania Robbery, Burglary and Theft Attorneys

What is the difference between theft crimes of robbery, burglary, and theft?

These three types of theft crimes might seem similar. But in the eyes of the law in Pennsylvania, these criminal charges have distinct differences. The state defines them as follows:

• Robbery charge – This type of theft crime involves taking something from someone with force. Even if no one comes to harm, the law still classifies robbery as a violent crime. A threat of violence during the theft is enough to elevate the crime to robbery.
• Burglary charge – Entering someone else’s property unlawfully with the intent to steal something is enough to charge someone with burglary. The culprit does not need to succeed in stealing anything. A burglary charge also applies to unlawfully entering someone else’s property and actually stealing something.
• Theft charge – Sometimes referred to as larceny, theft involves taking property without the owner’s consent. The value of the stolen items determines whether theft is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. When the stolen item was worth more than $2,000, it becomes a felony charge.

There are three ways a charge can be identified and ranked: felony, misdemeanor, and summary offense. Only theft can be considered a summary offense and only in specific instances. This is because a burglary charge involves entering someone’s home and a robbery charge involves stealing something from someone’s person. These actions necessitate greater charges.

What is the penalty for robbery in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania classifies robbery as a third-degree felony, which is punishable by up to 7 years in prison. If someone comes to harm during the robbery, the charge becomes a second-degree felony. Second-degree felonies are punishable by up to 10 years in prison. If the injuries inflicted by the defendant are serious and result in severe bodily harm, this particular robbery charge is classified as a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Should a thief kill someone during a robbery, they will be charged with second-degree murder.

What is the penalty for a burglary conviction?

Pennsylvania often classifies burglary as a first-degree felony. This crime carries a prison sentence of up to 20 years. However, sometimes law enforcement officials classify burglary as a second-degree felony, especially if there was no one in the structure when the burglar entered the building. The penalty for a second-degree felony is up to 10 years in prison in Pennsylvania.

What is the penalty for theft crimes in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania has several different theft charges based primarily on the value of the stolen items, the relationship between the thief and the victim, and if this was their first offense. The most common type of theft is retail theft, which is when something is stolen from a storefront by a customer. If an employee steals items from their employer, it’s not considered retail theft, even if they work at retail.

The penalties for all types of theft include:

• A summary offense in the Fourth-Degree Theft – This is for retail theft of something with a monetary value equal to or less than $25, and it is your first offense. Penalty – a fine of $25.
• A summary offense in the Third-Degree Theft – This is for retail theft of something with a monetary value equal to or less than $75, and it is your first offense. Penalty – a fine of $75.
• A summary offense in the Second-Degree Theft – This is for retail theft of something with a monetary value equal to or less than $150, and it is your first offense. Penalty – a fine of $150 or imprisonment for 20 days or less.
• A summary offense in the First-Degree Theft – This is for retail theft of something with a monetary value equal to or less than $250, and it is your first offense. Penalty – a fine of $250 or imprisonment for 90 days or less.
• A misdemeanor in the Third-Degree Theft – Stolen property worth less than $50. Penalty – up to 1 year in prison and up to a $2,500 fine.
• A misdemeanor in the Second-Degree Theft – Stolen property valued between $50 and $200. Penalty – up to 2 years in prison and up to a $5,000 fine.
• A misdemeanor in the First-Degree Theft – Stolen property worth $200 to $2,000. Penalty – up to 5 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
• A felony in the Third-Degree Theft – Stolen property worth more than $2,000 or if the property stolen is a car, truck, motorcycle, boat, or another type of vehicle. Penalty – up 7 years in prison and up to a $15,000 fine.
• A felony in the Second-Degree Theft – The penalty for a felony of second-degree conviction in Pennsylvania is up to 10 years in prison and up to a $25,000 fine. This charge includes the following stolen items or circumstances: stolen firearm; receiving stolen firearms; theft committed during a natural disaster; and the stolen item contains anhydrous ammonia, a material used to make many illegal drugs, including methamphetamine.
• A felony in the First-Degree Theft – Stolen property is a firearm and the person receiving the stolen firearm buys and sells stolen guns. Penalty – up to 20 years and prison and up to a $25,000 fine.

“Why should I hire Mazzoni Valvano Szewczyk & Karam to represent me?”

Subtle distinctions exist between crimes classified as theft, robbery, or burglary. But the penalties for one crime versus another can be dramatically different. We protect clients against overzealous prosecutors who file the wrong charges or build cases based on procedural mistakes and flawed evidence.

We have years of experience investigating all types of serious criminal cases. Most importantly, we know what evidence to look for and what questions to ask when trying to build the strongest case. First, we’ll meet and consult on your case. After determining the best path for you, we’ll look to get your charges downgraded, dismissed, or negotiate a favorable plea deal on your behalf.

We also cannot stress enough the importance of contacting our law firm as soon as possible. We want to work with you and give your case the attention it rightfully deserves. Contact us right now for a free case evaluation: (570) 348-0776.