If you or someone you know has been accused of grand larceny in Maryland, it’s important to understand how the law defines theft crimes, what penalties may apply, and what legal defenses may be available. While the term “grand larceny” is widely used in other states to describe high-value theft, Maryland law doesn’t technically use that phrase—but the concept still applies under the state’s theft statute.
In this blog post, we’ll break down what “grand larceny” would be considered under Maryland law, how theft charges are classified, and what you should do if you’re facing these serious allegations.
What Is Grand Larceny in Maryland?
Maryland does not have a separate statute for “grand larceny.” Instead, theft crimes are governed by Maryland Criminal Law § 7-104, which defines theft as the unlawful taking of property with the intent to deprive the owner of it.
Rather than using terms like “petty theft” or “grand larceny,” Maryland categorizes theft based on the value of the property or services taken. The higher the value, the more serious the charge.
So while “grand larceny” isn’t the official legal term in Maryland, it generally refers to felony theft charges involving property worth $1,500 or more.
Maryland Theft Classifications
Under Maryland law, theft offenses are classified as follows:
Felony Theft (What Other States May Call Grand Larceny):
- $1,500 to under $25,000:
Felony — Up to 5 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000 - $25,000 to under $100,000:
Felony — Up to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $15,000 - $100,000 or more:
Felony — Up to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $25,000
In addition to prison time and fines, felony theft can also lead to restitution orders, loss of employment, and permanent damage to your criminal record.
Misdemeanor Theft (Petit Theft Equivalent):
- Under $100:
Misdemeanor — Up to 90 days in jail and a $500 fine - $100 to under $1,500:
Misdemeanor — Up to 6 months (for a first offense) and a $500 fine
Common Examples of Grand Larceny Charges in Maryland
Here are a few situations that could result in felony theft charges in Maryland:
- Stealing electronics, jewelry, or cash worth over $1,500
- Embezzling funds from an employer
- Taking a vehicle without permission (sometimes charged in combination with motor vehicle theft statutes)
- Engaging in retail theft (shoplifting) of high-value items
In Prince George’s, Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties, grand larceny-style theft cases are prosecuted aggressively, especially if the crime involved breach of trust (like employee theft), theft from seniors, or organized retail schemes.
Defenses to Theft Charges in Maryland
If you’re facing a felony theft charge, an experienced Southern Maryland criminal lawyer can evaluate the facts of your case and help build a defense. Common strategies include:
- Lack of intent: You didn’t intend to permanently deprive the owner of the property.
- Ownership dispute: The item belonged to you or you believed you had a right to it.
- Mistaken identity: You weren’t the person who committed the theft.
- Improper valuation: The prosecution overestimated the value to inflate the charge.
Keep in mind that Maryland prosecutors must prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. Challenging their evidence can be a key part of your defense.
Will a Grand Larceny Conviction Stay on My Record?
Yes. A felony theft conviction will remain on your criminal record and can affect your:
- Ability to get a job
- Professional licenses
- Immigration status
- Housing applications
- Firearm ownership rights
In some cases, theft convictions may be eligible for expungement—but only under certain conditions. A criminal defense attorney can advise whether that’s possible in your situation.
Accused of Grand Larceny in Maryland? Call a Southern Maryland Criminal Lawyer Today
If you’ve been charged with what amounts to grand larceny under Maryland law, time is not on your side. The sooner you speak with a qualified criminal defense lawyer, the better your chances of protecting your rights and securing a favorable outcome.
At Southern Maryland Criminal Defense, we’ve helped clients in Charles, Prince George’s, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties fight serious theft charges and avoid life-altering penalties. Let us review your case and discuss your options.
