If you are facing larceny charges in Iowa, it is imperative that you fully understand your legal rights and options. Work with an experienced Dallas County theft crime lawyer for skilled representation and legal advice during your case.
What is Larceny in IA?
The term “larceny” is not used in Iowa’s legal code. The state instead defines the crime of theft, the equivalent of larceny in other jurisdictions. Theft is defined under Iowa Code Section 714.1, which states that a person commits theft when they do any of the following.
- Take possession or control of the property of another, or property in the possession of another, with the intent to deprive the other thereof
- Misappropriate property which the person has in trust, or property of another which the person has in the person’s possession or control, whether such possession or control is lawful or unlawful, by using or disposing of it in a manner inconsistent with or a denial of the trust or of the owner’s rights in such property
- Conceal found property, or appropriate such property to the person’s own use, when the owner of such property is known to the person
The statute includes alternative definitions, including theft of services, control of stolen property, and more. However, the above-listed definitions are the most common offenses. These actions are similar to the elements of larceny in other areas, which is generally defined as the unlawful taking and moving of another person’s property with the intent to deprive them of it.
How is Theft Classified in IA?
Under Section 714.2 of the Iowa Code, theft is categorized by degree of severity, ranging from fifth degree (least severe) to first degree (most severe). These classifications are as follows.
- Fifth-degree: Theft of property less than $300 in value
- Fourth-degree: Theft of property valued between $300 and $750
- Third-degree: Theft of property valued between $750 and $1,500, or theft of property not exceeding $750 by an individual with two prior theft convictions
- Second-degree: Theft of property valued between $1,500 and $10,000, or theft of a motor vehicle not exceeding $10,000 in value
- First-degree: Theft of property valued at more than $10,000, theft of property from the person of another, or theft of property from a building that has been destroyed or abandoned due to a natural disaster, riot, bombing, etc.
What Are the Penalties for Each Degree of Theft?
If you are convicted of theft in Iowa, you could be subject to a variety of penalties, including restitution, probation, community service, and more. The terms of imprisonment and fines associated with each degree of offense are as follows.
- Fifth-degree: Simple misdemeanor, up to 30 days of imprisonment and fines of up to $855
- Fourth-degree: Serious misdemeanor, up to 1 year of imprisonment and fines of up to $2,560
- Third-degree: Aggravated misdemeanor, up to 2 years of imprisonment and fines of up to $8,540
- Second-degree: Class D felony, up to 5 years of imprisonment and fines of up to $10,245
- First-degree: Class C felony, up to 10 years of imprisonment and fines of up to $13,660
To learn more and secure legal representation, contact a skilled criminal defense attorney today.
