Felony theft in Maryland refers to stealing property or services valued at $1,500 or more. Under Maryland Criminal Law § 7-104, theft becomes a felony offense based on the value of the stolen property, and penalties increase with the amount involved. The charge carries serious consequences, including potential prison time and a permanent criminal record.
Felony theft charges often arise in cases involving shoplifting, employee embezzlement, credit card fraud, and stolen vehicles. Even if it’s your first offense, you could be facing felony-level penalties if the value crosses certain thresholds.
When Is Theft a Felony in Maryland?
Maryland law breaks down felony theft into three main tiers based on the value of the stolen property or services:
- $1,500 to under $25,000
- Felony theft
- Up to 5 years in prison
- Up to $10,000 fine
- Required restitution
- $25,000 to under $100,000
- Felony theft
- Up to 10 years in prison
- Up to $15,000 fine
- $100,000 or more
- Felony theft
- Up to 20 years in prison
- Up to $25,000 fine
If the value is under $1,500, theft is typically charged as a misdemeanor, though repeat offenses or certain types of property (like firearms) can still result in felony charges.
What Must the State Prove in a Felony Theft Case?
To convict someone of felony theft, the prosecution must prove:
- Unauthorized control over property or services
- Intent to deprive the owner permanently
- The value of the stolen property or services
- Knowledge that the property belonged to someone else
Valuation is key. If the prosecutor can’t prove the property meets the felony threshold, the charge could be reduced to a misdemeanor.
Common Examples of Felony Theft in Maryland
Some common scenarios where felony theft charges may apply:
- Stealing high-value electronics, jewelry, or cash from a store or home
- Using stolen credit cards to make purchases over $1,500
- Embezzling funds from an employer
- Auto theft or tampering with vehicle registration to mislead ownership
If multiple items are stolen during one act, their combined value can be used to determine whether the theft is a felony.
Defenses to Felony Theft Charges
A skilled Southern Maryland criminal lawyer can build a strong defense based on the facts of your case. Common defenses include:
- Mistaken identity
- Lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner
- Rightful ownership or honest belief the property was yours
- Value disputes, arguing the property’s worth is below the felony threshold
- Violation of rights, such as an illegal search or arrest
If you’re facing a felony theft charge, don’t assume the evidence is stacked against you. There may be legal grounds to suppress evidence or get the charges reduced—or dismissed altogether.
Consequences of a Felony Theft Conviction
A conviction for felony theft can have long-term consequences beyond jail time and fines. These include:
- A permanent felony record
- Difficulty finding employment
- Ineligibility for certain professional licenses
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Loss of firearm rights
Because of these lasting effects, it’s essential to have a criminal defense attorney review your case as early as possible.
Talk to a Southern Maryland Criminal Lawyer Today
If you’ve been charged with felony theft in Prince George’s County or anywhere in Southern Maryland, you need an experienced defense attorney to protect your rights and challenge the charges. At Southern Maryland Criminal Defense, we’ve helped countless clients get their charges reduced, dropped, or dismissed.
👉 Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your options.
